The Los Angeles Chargers have appointed Chris O’Leary as their new defensive coordinator, bringing him back from Western Michigan where he led a top-ranked defense. This move comes as part of head coach Jim Harbaugh’s efforts to build a coaching staff capable of advancing the team beyond recent playoff exits.
The Chargers announced O’Leary’s hiring late Wednesday night, filling the vacancy left by Jesse Minter, who departed to become the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens last week. O’Leary returns to Los Angeles after spending the 2024 season as the Chargers’ safeties coach and most recently serving as defensive coordinator at Western Michigan. His appointment was confirmed by multiple reliable sources, including ESPN and NFL.com, on January 28, 2026.
During his lone season at Western Michigan, O’Leary’s defense ranked ninth in the FBS in scoring defense, allowing just 17.4 points per game, and was second in the Mid-American Conference. His unit also excelled in total defense, ranking 19th nationally with 305.5 yards allowed per game, contributing to Western Michigan’s 10-4 record and first MAC Championship. This success highlighted O’Leary’s ability to develop and manage a competitive defensive scheme.
Prior to his stint at Western Michigan, O’Leary was instrumental in the Chargers’ defensive success in 2024. As safeties coach, he helped develop players like Elijah Molden, who posted career highs in interceptions, tackles, and other key metrics. The Chargers’ defense led the NFL in points allowed per game that season, building on the foundation laid by Minter and establishing a culture of defensive excellence.
Minter’s tenure as defensive coordinator saw the Chargers transform from one of the league’s worst defenses under previous coach Brandon Staley to a top-ranked unit. In two seasons, the defense ranked second in QBR allowed, third in points, and seventh in yards per play. O’Leary now faces the challenge of sustaining this high level of performance, a task for which he is well-prepared given his history with the team and Minter.
O’Leary’s coaching career includes six seasons at Notre Dame, where he progressed from defensive analyst to defensive backs and safeties coach, mentoring current Chargers cornerback Cam Hart. His professional relationship with Minter dates back to their time at Georgia State in 2014 and 2015, when Minter was defensive coordinator and O’Leary served as a graduate assistant. This familiarity is expected to facilitate a smooth transition and maintain defensive continuity.
The announcement has been met with optimism from Chargers players. Linebacker Daiyan Henley expressed excitement on social media, posting “The vibes are up,” while safeties Tony Jefferson and Elijah Molden also voiced their support. O’Leary’s return is seen as a positive step in maintaining team chemistry and building on recent successes, with players already familiar with his coaching style.
With O’Leary and new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel now in place, Harbaugh has assembled his key coordinators for the 2026 season. The Chargers, having experienced back-to-back wild-card playoff exits, are poised to make a deeper run. O’Leary’s defensive acumen and existing rapport with the players position the team to continue its defensive dominance and compete for championships, aiming to capitalize on the momentum from recent seasons.
