The Los Angeles Chargers’ search for a new defensive coordinator continues to take shape, and the latest name added to the interview list is one that’s already in-house. The team has officially completed an interview with defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale for the open DC role.
Clinkscale, 48, brings more than two decades of coaching experience to the table, with a résumé that reflects a steady climb through the college ranks and now into the NFL. His coaching journey began back in 2001 at Ashland University, where he cut his teeth coaching defensive backs before spending a season with the linebackers. From there, he built his reputation as a DBs specialist with stops at Western Carolina, Toledo, Illinois, and Cincinnati-where he eventually earned a promotion to defensive coordinator in 2015.
That 2015 season at Cincinnati marked a turning point for Clinkscale, setting the stage for his next move to Kentucky. From 2016 to 2020, he helped shape the Wildcats’ secondary into a tough, SEC-caliber unit, developing a reputation for player development and schematic versatility. His success in Lexington opened the door to Michigan, where he joined the Wolverines in 2021 as the defensive backs coach and quickly rose to co-defensive coordinator in 2022 and 2023.
When Jim Harbaugh made the leap to the Chargers ahead of the 2024 season, Clinkscale followed him to Los Angeles, taking over as DBs coach. Now, just a year into his NFL tenure, he’s in the mix for a promotion that would put him in charge of the entire defense.
Clinkscale isn’t the only candidate under consideration. The Chargers have already interviewed several others, including outside linebackers coach Dylan Roney, safeties coach Adam Fuller, and Rams assistant head coach Aubrey Pleasant. Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr is also scheduled for an interview.
What makes Clinkscale a compelling option is his familiarity with the current roster and coaching staff. He’s already helped shape the Chargers' secondary, and his long history of developing defensive backs could be a major asset in a league that continues to lean heavily on the passing game. If the Chargers are looking for continuity and a coach who knows the personnel inside and out, Clinkscale checks those boxes.
The DC search is still unfolding, but with interviews stacking up and candidates ranging from in-house options to external names with NFL pedigree, the Chargers are clearly casting a wide net. Whether they go with a fresh face or promote from within, the next defensive coordinator will play a key role in shaping the identity of this team under Harbaugh’s leadership.
And for Clinkscale, this interview marks another step in a coaching career that’s been defined by steady growth, strong relationships, and a deep understanding of the defensive side of the ball.