Chargers lose defensive mastermind Jesse Minter to the Ravens. Now, Jim Harbaugh's staff scrambles to find his replacement, eyeing fresh minds or experienced recruiters.
After getting phenomenal news earlier this week that Mike McDaniel would be joining the LA Chargers as their next offensive coordinator, a counterpunch of bad news hit on Thursday as standout defensive coordinator Jesse Minter officially inked a deal to become the next head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. And while that’s obviously a great thing for Minter’s career and well deserved, it’s a massive blow for the Chargers.
So now, after filling the vacant offensive coordinator role, Jim Harbaugh and his staff will immediately have to turn their attention to filling the DC position as well. The good news is that given how well positioned this Chargers team is moving forward and the success they had last season, it should be an attractive job. This defense isn’t the best unit in the league and there isn’t an abundance of superstar talent that would automatically draw top candidates over other premier openings, but it’s still a strong opportunity for the right coach stepping into the role.
For the Chargers, finding someone who can bring talent with them would be an ideal scenario. Often times, defensive coordinators can help lure free agents who have previously played in their system, which can be a big advantage when reshaping a roster. One approach would be hiring a young, up-and-coming defensive mind who doesn’t have much experience but is viewed as the next great coach. On the flip side, they could target a veteran with an established system and a long list of former players who could be re-recruited into that scheme.
Either way, Los Angeles now has another important search on its hands. This isn’t a total shock given Minter had been interviewing for multiple jobs, but with the news now official, the Chargers’ hunt for a new defensive coordinator is officially underway.