The Los Angeles Chargers are trying to recover after a shocking upset in the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs, where they fell to the Houston Texans in what many consider to be star quarterback Justin Herbert’s worst game of the season, marked by a season-high four interceptions in the 32-12 loss. As the franchise recalibrates and looks toward the upcoming NFL draft, it must also focus on replacing a key member of its defensive staff, as reported by a prominent insider.
“Sources: Chargers safeties coach Chris O’Leary is expected to become the new defensive coordinator at Western Michigan. He’s a former Notre Dame assistant who coached Xavier Watts and Kyle Hamilton during his time with the Irish, serving as safeties coach from 2021-23,” ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported on Friday, adding, “O’Leary rose quickly through the ranks at Notre Dame from an analyst role, and this will mark his first opportunity as a defensive play caller. The Chargers led the NFL with the fewest points allowed per game this season.”
O’Leary rose quickly through the ranks at Notre Dame from an analyst role, and this will mark his first opportunity as a defensive play caller. The Chargers led the NFL with the fewest points allowed per game this season.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 31, 2025
Fans have reacted on social media, expressing their views on O’Leary’s transition. One fan commented, “Notre Dame to the Los Angeles Chargers to… Western Michigan. Strange decision,” while another noted, “Surprised USC didn’t make him king of the university. They’re hiring everyone else that’s worked for ND.” A Chargers fan added, “Man don’t leave. Come back you were next up after Minter.” It’ll be interesting to see if O’Leary eventually finds his way back to the NFL.
