The Los Angeles Chargers have appointed Chris O’Leary as their new defensive coordinator, following the departure of Jesse Minter, who accepted the head coaching position with the Baltimore Ravens on January 22, 2026. O’Leary, who previously served as defensive coordinator at Western Michigan University, is now tasked with continuing the Chargers’ trend of defensive excellence after two successful seasons under Minter.
O’Leary’s connection to Minter runs deep. The two first crossed paths at Indiana State, where O’Leary played as a scout team quarterback while Minter was an assistant coach. They later worked together at Georgia State, Florida Tech, and the Chargers during the 2024 season. With Minter’s success in establishing one of the top defenses in the NFL, O’Leary faces high expectations as he looks to build upon that foundation.
In his introductory remarks on February 3, 2026, O’Leary expressed enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. “Number one, we’re going to elevate what we do well. The foundation of our defense, we’re going to elevate that,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of evolving the defense to suit the players’ strengths and enhancing the overall performance as they prepare for the upcoming season.
O’Leary’s plans for the 2026 season will begin to take shape in the coming weeks. The Chargers have a solid core of returning starters, including defensive lineman Jamaree Caldwell, linebackers Troy Dye and Daiyan Henley, and safety Derwin James Jr., a five-time Pro Bowl selection. The team is aiming to maintain its defensive prowess after ranking first in points allowed per game in 2024 and ninth in 2025, yielding an average of 20 points.
As free agency approaches on March 11, 2026, and the NFL draft takes place from April 23-25, 2026, the Chargers will be looking to bolster their roster. Key unrestricted free agents include veteran outside linebacker Khalil Mack and defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand. Retaining Mack, who nearly entered free agency last year, is crucial, as well as ensuring the continuity of their defensive unit.
Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz has indicated a priority to keep as many core players as possible, especially on the outside linebacker front. “We’re going to fight to keep as many players as we can,” he affirmed during his season-ending press conference. O’Leary’s relationship with James is particularly promising. “He’s the ultimate competitor,” O’Leary remarked about James, highlighting the player’s contagious energy and leadership.
The Chargers’ defensive strategy will also need to address questions surrounding their front line. Caldwell emerged as a promising talent during his rookie season, and the organization is keen to enhance the physicality of their play. Henley led the team with 101 tackles last season, demonstrating his growth as a leader.
Looking ahead, the Chargers have approximately $83.5 million in projected cap space for 2026, with total commitments reaching $224.5 million and specific defensive commitments at $82.9 million. The decisions made during the offseason will significantly influence O’Leary’s approach to his new role.
As the Chargers prepare for the upcoming season, the groundwork laid by Minter will serve as both an inspiration and a benchmark for O’Leary. The challenge ahead is clear: to enhance an already formidable defense and ensure that the Chargers remain competitive in the demanding landscape of the NFL.
