BREAKING: Isabel Diaz has made headlines as one of just 11 women holding full-time coaching positions in the NFL, now in her crucial third season with the Indianapolis Colts. As the Harriet P. Irsay Fellow, she is making significant contributions to the team, currently boasting an impressive 8-2 record and leading the AFC South ahead of a high-stakes game against the Kansas City Chiefs (5-5) this week.
Diaz’s passion for football ignited during childhood, influenced by weekends spent with her grandparents in Dallas. “The doughnuts got me,” she recalls. “Next thing you know, I’m looking at the standings and fell in love with the game.” This early connection has propelled her into a pivotal role within the NFL.
Having faced barriers early on, Diaz turned her frustration into determination, focusing on coaching instead of playing tackle football. She earned her degree in sport and coaching science from Oklahoma State University, where she played an active role with the football team. “I kept asking for that next step, and by my senior year, I had a seat at the table,” she explained.
Diaz’s journey took a pivotal turn when she participated in the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Washington Commanders, working under former coach Ron Rivera. “He preached about the value of having different voices in the room,” Diaz stated. “They asked for my opinion, and I was very involved.” This experience laid the groundwork for her current success.
In 2023, Diaz met Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon at the NFL Women’s Forum, which solidified her path into the league. “I’m 22 years old, graduating college, and coaching in the NFL,” she reflected on receiving the fellowship offer. “It means so much to be a part of this organization.”
With the Colts riding high on their winning streak, Diaz emphasizes the importance of teamwork and shared passion. “We’re all doing it together, regardless of gender or background,” she asserted. “Seeing our success, I’ve watched us grow and find our groove.”
The NFL has made strides in promoting diversity, with a staggering 289% increase in women involved in football operations and coaching roles over the past five years. Currently, there are 358 women in these positions, reflecting a commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups.
As the Colts prepare for their upcoming game, Diaz’s impact resonates not just within the team but in the broader NFL community. Her journey is a testament to determination, passion, and the evolving landscape of the league, making her story one of urgency and inspiration for aspiring coaches everywhere.
With the Colts’ trajectory looking promising, all eyes will be on Diaz and her team as they face the Chiefs. The match is set to be a pivotal moment not just for the Colts, but for women in sports, highlighting the growing presence and influence of female coaches in the NFL.
