Chargers Reunion: Chris O’Leary Returns to Coordinate Defense Following Minter Departure
The Los Angeles Chargers have officially ended their search for a new defensive leader. In a move that signals a desire for continuity and familiarity, the organization announced late Wednesday that Chris O’Leary has been hired as the defensive coordinator. This decision brings a former staff member back into the fold to oversee a unit that has become one of the most formidable in the NFL.
O’Leary is no stranger to the Chargers facility or the expectations that come with working under Jim Harbaugh. He served as the team’s safeties coach during the 2024 season before departing to take the defensive coordinator job at Western Michigan University. His return marks a rapid ascension up the coaching ladder and places him in charge of sustaining the high standards set by his predecessor.
Building on a Strong Foundation
The vacancy was created when Jesse Minter left Los Angeles to become the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. Minter’s departure left a significant void. During his two seasons in Los Angeles, Minter transformed a struggling defense into a powerhouse. Under his guidance, the Chargers ranked second in the league in QBR allowed (50.0), third in points allowed (18.9), and seventh in yards per play (5.2). In 2024 specifically, the unit led the NFL by allowing the fewest points per game at just 17.7.
The organization interviewed a wide array of candidates to fill this crucial role. The list included names like Steve Clinkscale, Adam Fuller, and Jim Leonhard. However, the front office ultimately prioritized a candidate who understood the existing culture and scheme. They found their answer in O’Leary.
Proven Success at the Collegiate Level
While his time away from the Chargers was brief, O’Leary made a distinct impact at Western Michigan. Serving as defensive coordinator for the 2025 season, he orchestrated a defense that ranked ninth in the entire FBS. His unit was particularly stingy in the Mid-American Conference, ranking second in scoring defense by allowing only 17.4 points per game and second in total net yards allowed.
Before his initial stint in Los Angeles, O’Leary spent six seasons at Notre Dame. He began as a defensive analyst and worked his way up to coach defensive backs and safeties. It was there that he first coached current Chargers cornerback Cam Hart, adding another layer of existing chemistry to this hire.
Player Reactions and the Road Ahead
The hiring has already generated positive buzz within the locker room. Linebacker Daiyan Henley took to social media shortly after the announcement to share his approval. Henley posted that “the vibes are up” regarding the news, suggesting that O’Leary has retained the respect of the players he coached in 2024.
This hire fits a growing trend for Jim Harbaugh, who has shown a willingness to embrace younger coaches and modern approaches to the game. O’Leary represents a youthful choice, similar to the offensive trend set by coaches like Mike McDaniel, but he comes equipped with the specific institutional knowledge Harbaugh values.
O’Leary will need to hit the ground running. The Chargers are approaching a challenging offseason with key personnel decisions looming. High-profile pass rushers Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh are set to hit the open market, creating potential gaps in the lineup that O’Leary and the front office must address.
The goal for the upcoming season is clear. The Chargers need to maintain the defensive dominance that defined the Minter era while integrating any new pieces acquired in free agency. By bringing back Chris O’Leary, the franchise is betting that the best way to move forward is by looking to someone who helped build the foundation in the first place.
