Jim Harbaugh has started to build up a new crew of coordinators for his 2026 staff. He finally has found his new defensive coordinator after the massive loss of Jesse Minter to the Ravens.
On Jan 28th, the Chargers announced that they would be hiring Western Michigan defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary to become their new DC. O’Leary had actually worked with Jesse Minter in 2024 as the safeties coach for LA. This may come as a bit of a surprise to Chargers fans as O’Leary does not have much experience in the NFL outside of that role.
This past year, O’Leary helped lead the Western Michigan Broncos to a 10-4 record and a first ever championship in the Mid-American Conference. Prior to that role with the Broncos, he had spent six years at Notre Dame, filling various roles for the team.
Why Jim Harbaugh Trusted O’Leary With the Keys
His defense at Western Michigan may have been what initially caught Harbaugh’s eye. He had the team ranked ninth in total defense in the entire FBS and second in the MAC in scoring defense as well. He also had them ranked second in the MAC in total net yards allowed, which also had them ranked nineteenth in the nation.
Most impressively though is that in his brief time with the Chargers, he contributed massively to a unit that ranked first overall in scoring defense, which allowed only 17.7 points per game. they only allowed 45 percent of opposing drives to the red zone to result in touchdowns as well. Derwin James received his fourth ever Pro Bowl nod and second team All-Pro status under O’Leary’s tutelage.
Most importantly, it seems as if Chargers players really respect O’Leary and what he has been able to do throughout his career. Veteran Tony Jefferson said as much on his appearance on The Ari Meirov Show.
For O’Leary, this is major proof that hanging around the right people can pay dividends. After year of being attached to Jesse Minter’s hip, whether it be his time with him at Georgia State when Minter was the DC there, or being his safeties coach in 2024 with the Chargers, O’Leary has more than earned a right to this position.
Sustaining a Defensive Standard Jesse Minter Built
What will matter most however, is being able to sustain what Minter has already built. Remember that before Minter’s arrival, the Chargers defense ranked as one of the worst in the league, 30th in yards allowed per play, points, and rushing yards allowed. After Minter however, they have quickly become a top five defense, also ranking second in QBR allowed, third in points, and seventh in yards per play.
O’Leary will be joining a mostly new look staff as well as the Chargers try and get over the hump. What with new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel looking to enliven the offense, it is imperative that O’Leary be able to match that intensity with his defensive game planning. What with him being one of Minter’s most successful proteges, I don’t think the Chargers have to worry.
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