Chris O”Leary has officially returned to the Los Angeles Chargers as their new defensive coordinator, taking over the role from Jesse Minter, who left to coach the Baltimore Ravens. O”Leary, who previously served as the team”s safeties coach in 2024, is excited to be back in Southern California after a brief tenure at Western Michigan.
Last season, while coaching at Western Michigan, O”Leary remained connected to the Chargers by reviewing their games each week. He prepared highlight reels from their performances to inspire his players at Western Michigan, reminding them, “Watch the guys at the highest level do it,” as he recounted.
O”Leary”s return to the Chargers came on January 28, 2025, just days after Minter”s departure on January 22. The hiring process was quick, thanks in part to Minter”s strong recommendation of O”Leary. The two had a long-standing relationship that dates back to their days at Indiana State, where O”Leary played under Minter”s father, Rick. Their paths crossed again at Georgia State, and later at Florida Tech, before O”Leary joined the Chargers after a successful run at Notre Dame.
During his sole season at Western Michigan, O”Leary led a defense that played a key role in the team winning the Mid-American Conference championship with a record of 10-4. His defense allowed an impressive average of 17.4 points per game, ranking ninth in the FBS and second in the MAC. Despite a rocky start to the season, which included a tough loss to Michigan State, O”Leary”s unit rebounded to finish strong.
O”Leary described returning to the Chargers as “a no-brainer,” emphasizing the support he received from coaches and players alike, especially from Pro Bowl safety Derwin James Jr., who was quick to reach out during the interview process.
As he steps into this role, O”Leary faces the challenge of enhancing one of the NFL”s top defenses. Last season, the Chargers ranked ninth overall, surrendering an average of 20 points per game. “There are two things we”re going to focus on,” O”Leary stated. “Number one, we”re going to elevate what we do well. The foundation of our defense, we”re going to elevate that. The second thing we”re going to do is evolve the defense.” He aims to adapt the scheme to fit the strengths of the players currently on the roster.
When asked about potential roster moves, including re-signing standout outside linebackers Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh, O”Leary smiled, indicating that it would be a task for general manager Joe Hortiz in the upcoming weeks as free agency opens on March 11.
“I think all the guys here see me as a coach, see me as a guy who”s going to push them and really pull the most out of them,” O”Leary reflected on his coaching philosophy. His emotional farewell to the players at Western Michigan showcases his commitment to developing strong relationships with his athletes, emphasizing respect and support in their growth as players.
