The Bills edge rusher breaks down the "assassin" mentality and cerebral coaching style that allow Buffalo's defense to play faster by mastering the purpose behind every scheme.
Bradley Chubb has played under several defensive coordinators throughout his NFL career, but the Buffalo Bills edge rusher believes there is something different about the way Jim Leonhard approaches the game.
Since taking over as Buffalo's defensive coordinator, Leonhard has quickly earned praise from players for his ability to explain not just what the defense is doing, but why it is doing it.
"Jim is a great guy. Very cerebral when it comes to the game of football," Chubb said. "Just knows so much about schemes, about why he's calling things."
For Chubb, that attention to detail has separated Leonhard from other coordinators he has worked with. Rather than simply installing plays, Leonhard makes sure players understand the purpose behind each concept and exactly what is expected from them.
"I feel like the difference I've seen in him versus other DC's I've been with is when we're installing, he's installing with the reason why we're installing," Chubb said. "It's never just putting a play in just to put a play in. Each play has a purpose, has a reason, and he tells us exactly what he wants out of us in that play."
That level of communication has helped create confidence for players within the scheme. Chubb believes knowing the expectations allows defenders to play faster because they understand their responsibilities and how they fit into the bigger picture.
"When you've got a guy like that, it's easy to play for because you know where you stand," Chubb said. "You know if I'm doing the job or if I'm not doing the job. And so it's easy to go out there and play fast."
While Leonhard's defensive style is aggressive and built around creating pressure, Chubb said the coordinator's personality is much quieter. That contrast is something the veteran pass rusher believes makes Leonhard effective.
"The style of an assassin, man," Chubb said. "I mean, that's how you got to see it. He schemes it all up, but he's not going to say much to you."
Chubb explained that Leonhard is not someone who seeks attention or tries to make his presence felt through words. Instead, his focus remains on preparation and execution.
That approach has resonated with Chubb, who said Leonhard's personality fits the type of defensive leader players want to follow.
"I like it because at the end of the day, you want that stealth, that guy who's not, you know, trying to be in the media and trying to do all this," Chubb said. "He's just about the business."
While Chubb has been impressed with Leonhard's coaching style, Leonhard has been equally impressed with what the veteran defender has brought to Buffalo. Beyond Chubb's performance on the field, Leonhard has noticed the way he has embraced a leadership role with younger teammates.
"He's a real pro," Leonhard said. "I mean, he has a process. You know, he knows what he needs to do, and he's willing to share."
Leonhard pointed to Chubb's willingness to spend extra time helping teammates as one of the things that has stood out the most. Whether it's during meetings, communicating with teammates, or working individually after practice, Chubb has consistently looked for ways to make those around him better.
"There's a lot of guys that [are like] just leave me alone, let me do my thing and get off the field," Leonhard said. "I mean, he's just open."
That approach is something Chubb said has always been a part of his leadership style. Rather than trying to force himself into a leadership role, he believes the best way to lead is by being consistent and authentic.
"I'd describe myself just being me, honestly," Chubb said. "What's got me here? I've been doing the same style of leadership since I was in college, and I feel like it's carried over."
As the Bills continue adjusting to Leonhard's new defensive system, having a veteran player who understands the importance of communication and accountability could help accelerate the transition. Leonhard believes Chubb is already setting that example.
"He's playing damn good football right now," Leonhard said. "It's a lot of fun."
