Chris O”Leary is back with the Los Angeles Chargers, taking over as the team”s defensive coordinator. He fills the role left vacant by Jesse Minter, who recently accepted the head coaching position with the Baltimore Ravens.
After spending the 2025 season as the defensive coordinator at Western Michigan, O”Leary is excited to return to Southern California, a place he feels a strong connection to. During his time with the Broncos, he dedicated Wednesdays to reviewing the Chargers” latest games, preparing highlights for his players back at Western Michigan. “I would tag specific plays and show them to my players,” O”Leary recalled, emphasizing the importance of learning from the best.
O”Leary”s journey in coaching began years ago alongside Minter, starting when he played as a scout team quarterback and later as a wide receiver at Indiana State, where Minter was coaching with his father. Their partnership continued at Georgia State, where O”Leary served as a graduate assistant, and they later reunited at various institutions, including Florida Tech and most recently, the Chargers, where O”Leary coached the safeties, contributing to a top-tier defense.
Last season, O”Leary”s defense at Western Michigan was impressive, leading the team to a Mid-American Conference championship, finishing the season with a 10-4 record. Despite a rocky start, where they surrendered multiple touchdowns to Michigan State, the Broncos rebounded strongly, achieving a 10-1 finish.
O”Leary”s return to the Chargers was facilitated by Minter”s departure, a move anticipated by head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. O”Leary expressed that he had other opportunities but coming back was “a no-brainer.” Players, including Pro Bowl safety Derwin James Jr., reached out to him, eager to welcome him back.
As he steps into his new role, O”Leary faces the challenge of enhancing one of the NFL”s elite defenses. Last season, the Chargers ranked ninth overall, allowing an average of 20 points per game, which contributed to their second consecutive 11-win season. “We”re going to elevate what we do well,” O”Leary stated, outlining his plan to build on the team”s existing strengths while also introducing new elements tailored to the players” skills.
Looking ahead, O”Leary has yet to reach out to standout outside linebackers Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh, both of whom are unrestricted free agents. He made it clear that his focus is on connecting with the current team, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships with his players. “They want a coach who loves them and respects them,” he noted, highlighting his commitment to their development.
