Super Bowl Sunday is a day of celebration for millions, but for some, it’s a stark reminder of what could have been. Imagine the agony of watching your former team or player thrive on the biggest stage while you’re left on the sidelines. But here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone is cheering for the same reasons, and some are downright miserable. And this is the part most people miss: the personal and professional struggles behind the glitz and glamour of the game.
The Athletic brings you live coverage of the Seahawks vs. Patriots in Super Bowl 60, but let’s dive into the stories of those for whom this day is anything but super. From coaching controversies to ownership blunders, here’s a list of individuals who might be feeling more than just FOMO.
13. Jerod Mayo – Once hailed as Bill Belichick’s successor, Mayo was fired after a single season as Patriots head coach, despite a weak roster. Now, as his brother Deron remains with the team, Mayo’s Super Sunday is a bitter pill to swallow. Is it fair to dismiss a coach after one season?
12. Jimmy and Dee Haslam – The Browns’ owners let Mike Vrabel slip through their fingers, only to watch him lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl. Their decision to stick with Kevin Stefanski backfired spectacularly. Should owners prioritize proven leadership over loyalty?
11. Tom Brady – As a minority owner of the Raiders, Brady’s decisions have been questionable, from hiring Pete Carroll to trading for Geno Smith. Now, he watches as the Patriots thrive without him. Can a legendary player transition into a successful owner?
10. Offset – The rapper might be less than thrilled to see Stefon Diggs, the father of Cardi B’s child, catching passes for the Patriots. How does personal life intersect with professional rivalries?
9. A.J. Brown – After leaving the Eagles, Brown likely envisioned himself in Foxboro, playing alongside Diggs. Instead, he’s watching from the sidelines. What if he had stayed?
8. Jed York – The 49ers’ owner must host the Super Bowl while his rivals, the Seahawks, compete for the title. Adding salt to the wound, the 49ers were eliminated by Seattle in the playoffs. Is it ever easy to be a gracious host?
7. The Frustrated Four – Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Patrick Mahomes are elite quarterbacks, yet none made it to the Super Bowl. Why did Drake Maye succeed where they failed?
6. Sean McVay – The Rams’ coach missed the Super Bowl after losing to the Seahawks, who benefited from Cooper Kupp’s heroics—a player the Rams had let go. Do teams undervalue their star players?
5. DK Metcalf – Traded to the Steelers, Metcalf’s season was marred by controversy and underperformance, while his former team, the Seahawks, thrived. Was his trade request a mistake?
4. Bill Belichick – Watching his former team succeed without him is painful enough, but being snubbed from the Hall of Fame adds insult to injury. Does Belichick’s legacy deserve more recognition?
3. Pete Carroll – Fired by the Raiders, Carroll now watches two former employers, the Patriots and Seahawks, compete for the title. Is it ever easy to move on after being let go?
2. Amy Adams Strunk – The Titans’ owner fired Mike Vrabel, only to see him become a two-time Coach of the Year. Her team’s struggles are a stark contrast to Vrabel’s success. Should owners take responsibility for their decisions?
1. Kevin O’Connell – The Vikings’ coach helped Sam Darnold leave, only to watch him lead the Seahawks to the Super Bowl. Meanwhile, his team struggled with J.J. McCarthy. What if he had kept Darnold?
As the Seahawks and Patriots clash, these individuals are left to ponder their choices and circumstances. Who do you think has the most reason to feel bitter? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
