I suspect there are many definitions of "good software developer". For one of this, making them managers is a horrible idea: they are strong, fast and effective

I suspect there are many definitions of "good software developer". For one of this, making them managers is a horrible idea: they are strong, fast and effective contributors, but terribly chaotic in their day-to-day. For another set of good software devs, they are very organized, care about morale and are good communicators: they become great managers. So my answer is: your great devs could, or not, fit into the role