In the world of American football, every team has their own unique rituals and traditions that they believe help them succeed on the field. For former Baltimore Ravens defensive line coach Anthony Weaver, one of those rituals involved imparting a “winning thought” to his position group before every game. Usually, Weaver was the one in charge of delivering this message, but every so often he would pass the responsibility on to another coach.
On the Saturday before the Ravens’ Week 4 matchup against the Cleveland Browns last season, Weaver decided to give assistant to the head coach/defensive assistant Megan Rosburg the opportunity to speak. This decision held special significance for Rosburg, as she had spent a large portion of her childhood in Cleveland, where her father was the Browns’ special teams coordinator. It was a sentimental moment for her, but also a nerve-wracking one, as she had never addressed the D-line room before.
When Rosburg stood up in front of the players, her anxiety transformed into raw emotion as she declared, “Every good story needs a villain!” This powerful statement resonated with the team, showing Rosburg that the players respected her just like any other coach on the staff. At just 31 years old, Rosburg was already making a name for herself as one of the few full-time female coaches in the NFL.
Reflecting on her experience, Rosburg emphasized the importance of mutual respect between coaches and players, regardless of gender. She highlighted the significance of providing players with the tools and knowledge to succeed on the field, rather than focusing on outward appearances. Former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald praised Rosburg’s capabilities, stating, “She’s the real deal.”
One of Rosburg’s early tasks as a coach was studying film to identify key indicators from opposing offensive linemen before the snap. This strategic analysis allowed their defensive linemen to gain a competitive edge during games. Despite being relatively new to the NFL, Rosburg has earned the respect of players, coaches, and executives within the Ravens organization.
Looking ahead to her third season in the league, Rosburg acknowledges that she is still expanding her football knowledge. However, she remains confident in her abilities and is grateful for the supportive environment within the Ravens. In her view, the NFL is a place where the best of the best come together to learn and grow, regardless of gender. Rosburg’s journey as a female coach in a male-dominated profession serves as a testament to the importance of skill, dedication, and authenticity in earning the respect of players and colleagues alike.
