The Ravens are deep into their coordinator search, and one name that’s caught the attention of fans and insiders alike is a familiar one in Baltimore: Jim Leonhard.
Baltimore has officially requested to interview Leonhard for its defensive coordinator position - a move that makes sense on multiple levels. Leonhard, 43, just wrapped up his second season with the Denver Broncos, where he served as Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Pass Game Coordinator in 2025. The year prior, in 2024, he held the dual role of Defensive Pass Game Coordinator and defensive backs coach - his first taste of NFL coaching after a strong run in the college ranks.
Leonhard is no stranger to the Ravens organization. He suited up as a safety for Baltimore during his playing days, and his familiarity with the team's culture and defensive identity gives him a unique edge. This isn’t just a case of nostalgia - Leonhard’s résumé speaks for itself.
Before making the jump to the NFL, he was the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin from 2017 to 2022, where he built a reputation for crafting disciplined, aggressive defenses that consistently punched above their weight. That same cerebral, detail-oriented approach carried over to Denver, where he helped guide the Broncos’ secondary and passing defense through two transitional seasons.
Leonhard’s name has been circulating in coaching circles for a while now. Both the Bills and Chargers had him on their radar this offseason. Ultimately, after the Chargers went in a different direction with Chris O'Leary, Leonhard accepted the defensive coordinator job in Buffalo.
Still, the Ravens’ interest in Leonhard underscores the kind of voice they’re looking to bring in - someone who understands the DNA of Baltimore defense, but also brings fresh ideas and proven leadership. While Leonhard is now headed to Buffalo, the Ravens’ pursuit of him signals that they’re not just looking for a schematic fit; they’re looking for a leader with a deep understanding of how to build a defense from the back end forward.
Baltimore’s next hire will be critical as the team looks to maintain its defensive edge while evolving to meet the demands of today’s NFL. And while Leonhard won’t be returning to Charm City this time, his name surfacing in this search is a reminder that the Ravens remain committed to blending tradition with innovation.