In football, we prepare for everything, every down, every opponent, every contingency. But when a job offer comes out of nowhere, even the most seasoned coaches can get caught flat-footed. That’s why there’s one team off the field you should never overlook: the family.
Josh Crawford, now the running backs coach at Bowling Green State University, learned that lesson firsthand. When opportunity knocked in the middle of spring ball, he had to act quickly, but not alone. His guiding principle? Treat your household like your front office.
“You gotta make sure the DFO at home is good.” – Josh Crawford (04:58.913)
In Crawford’s world, “DFO” doesn’t just mean Director of Football Operations—it means Director of Family Operations. His wife played a pivotal role in his decision-making process. That clarity rooted in family and faith gave him the foundation to evaluate whether the move was right professionally and personally.
Why Family Comes First in Football Decisions
The coaching carousel doesn’t always follow a calendar. Coaches move in and out mid-season, during spring ball, or after signing day. It’s tempting to chase the next step without slowing down. But pausing to ask, how will this affect my family? is more than good practice it’s leadership.
Crawford emphasized the importance of evaluating every opportunity with your loved ones:
“Take some time to evaluate. Is this a better situation for me personally and professionally?” – Josh Crawford (01:18.19)
When your next move affects more than just your career, you need a clear process. For Crawford, that meant prayer, consultation, and a lot of honesty.
Faith, Mentorship, and the Decision-Making Process
Transitions in coaching can stir emotions and uncertainty. That’s why having a grounded decision-making process matters. Crawford’s first move wasn’t logistical, it was spiritual.
“First and foremost, man, pray about it. I’m big on faith.” – Josh Crawford (04:58.913)
He didn’t stop there. He reached out to mentors, talked it through with trusted voices in the profession, and made sure his wife and child would thrive in the new environment.
Too often, coaches leap into the next opportunity without checking their blind spots. Crawford’s advice flips that script: include the people who matter most early and often.
Winning at Home Leads to Winning on the Field
By staying grounded in values and communication, coaches don’t just make better career decisions—they become better leaders. When your home is aligned, your focus at work sharpens. When your partner supports your next move, the whole family grows with you.
So next time that surprise offer comes through your phone or inbox, before updating your résumé or cutting highlight film, check with your DFO at home. Because the best moves in football start with the right ones at home.
Related:
Home Team – Jim Leonhard, Defensive Coordinator, Wisconsin
More on Coach Josh Crawford
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