Bill O’Brien
Bill O’Brien on Embracing Challenges in the Game of Football
Bill O’Brien
Partnership with Athletes First
Head Football Coach, Boston College
Bill O’Brien has built a reputation for turning challenges into opportunities. From reviving Penn State football to leading NFL teams, O’Brien’s journey is a testament to resilient leadership, strategic thinking, and the power of culture in driving success.
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Bill O’Brien'S SPEAKING FEE $40K - $70K
A 32-year coaching veteran in the college and professional ranks, O’Brien was named the head coach at Boston College in February of 2024.
His first head coaching job came with Penn State, where O’Brien was recognized in 2012 with a pair of national coaching awards – the Paul “Bear” Bryant National Coach of the Year, and the George Munger Award for Coach of the Year by the Maxwell Football Club.
He was named the head coach of the NFL’s Houston Texans in 2014, leading the franchise to a 52-48 record, four AFC South Division titles, and four playoff appearances – including two Wild Card round wins – between 2014 and 2020. After his time in Houston, O’Brien returned to the college game as the quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator at Alabama under Nick Saban in 2021 and 2022. He mentored Heisman Trophy winning QB Bryce Young and helped the Crimson Tide reach the College Football Playoff national championship game in 2021.
O’Brien, who totaled six years across two stints on Bill Belichick’s staff, helped guide the New England Patriots to two AFC titles and appearances in Super Bowl XLII and XLVI in six total years on the Patriots’ coaching staff. O’Brien was also the quarterbacks coach for two seasons, working directly with Tom Brady. During that time, Brady earned 2010 Associated Press MVP and All-Pro First Team honors.
Before entering the NFL, O’Brien gained 14 years of experience at the collegiate level, including 12 years in the ACC at Duke, Georgia Tech, and Maryland. He started his coaching career at his alma mater, Brown University.
Originally from Dorchester, Massachusetts, O’Brien played linebacker and defensive end at Brown and graduated with a double concentration in political science and organizational behavioral management in 1992.
Featured Videos
Bill O’Brien
Bill O’Brien on Coaches as Leaders
Bill O’Brien
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Bill O’Brien
Bill O’Brien on Embracing Challenges in the Game of Football
Bill O’Brien’s Speech Topics
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Leading with Resilience, Connection, and Commitment
Bill O’Brien’s coaching career is defined by his dedication to overcoming adversity and fostering genuine connections with the people he leads. In this talk, O’Brien shares how his leadership philosophy has guided teams through challenging times and how building a sense of community is essential for success, both on and off the field. From navigating high-pressure environments to earning the trust of players, O’Brien reveals how empathy, resilience, and commitment can transform any organization. His insights provide a powerful blueprint for leaders who strive to connect with people, inspire teams, and build a culture of excellence and accountability.
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