Chiefs coach Andy Reid is widely regarded as one of the most innovative offensive minds in the NFL. One key to his success has been his willingness to look almost anywhere for new play ideas and to listen to almost anyone.
When we say that Reid is open to advice from nearly anyone, we mean it quite literally. During a recent interview on the “Green Light with Chris Long” podcast, Reid revealed that he once implemented a play suggested by a janitor.
“I took one from a janitor one time at Green Bay,” Reid recalled. “He kept telling me, ‘I got this play for you.’ He was persistent about it, so finally, I said, ‘OK, here’s a card. Draw up the play.’ And he drew it up, and I thought, ‘Dang, that’s pretty good.'”
Liking the play is one thing, but using it in a game is another. However, Reid did just that, and the play turned out to be a resounding success.
“We called the play just before halftime, and it scored,” Reid said.
This anecdote not only showcases Reid’s openness to new ideas but also his humility and willingness to recognize good ideas, no matter where they come from.
Someone might want to reach out to that janitor and offer him an offensive coordinator job!
