The Los Angeles Chargers are riding a wave of change this offseason, and it’s a mix of excitement and tough goodbyes. Just one day after the team made headlines by bringing in Mike McDaniel to run the offense, they’re now parting ways with the architect of their defensive turnaround. Jesse Minter, who served as the Chargers’ defensive coordinator this past season, is heading back east-this time as the new head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.
Yes, you read that right. Minter is taking over as just the fourth head coach in Ravens franchise history, stepping in after the departure of longtime leader John Harbaugh. It’s a major move for both teams and a well-earned promotion for a coach who’s been turning heads for a while now.
Minter’s Impact in L.A.
When Jesse Minter followed Jim Harbaugh from Michigan to Los Angeles, there were questions about how quickly he could adapt to the pro level. It didn’t take long for those questions to get answered. In his first year with the Chargers, Minter took a patchwork defense-featuring several rookies like cornerbacks Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart-and molded it into the league’s top scoring unit, allowing just 17.7 points per game during the regular season.
That’s not just impressive, that’s elite.
Even with a slight dip in performance during the 2025 season, Minter’s defense remained the backbone of the team. While the offense struggled with protection issues and inconsistency, the defense often carried the load, keeping the Chargers in games they had no business winning.
Minter didn’t just coach a defense-he built a culture. He got buy-in from young players and veterans alike, and the results spoke for themselves on Sundays.
What’s Next for the Chargers?
Now, the attention shifts to who might fill Minter’s shoes. There are a couple of strong internal options, starting with defensive line coach Mike Elston and defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale.
Both have worked closely with Minter and know the system inside and out. But there’s also the possibility that one-or both-could follow Minter to Baltimore, especially if he wants to bring familiar faces into his new coaching staff.
Externally, keep an eye on names like Jim Leonhard, currently with the Denver Broncos as assistant head coach and pass game coordinator. He’s been on the radar for defensive coordinator roles before and has the kind of aggressive, modern defensive mind that could appeal to Harbaugh and the Chargers’ front office.
A Well-Earned Opportunity
For Minter, this move to Baltimore feels like a natural progression. He spent time with the Ravens from 2017 to 2020, eventually rising to defensive backs coach before moving on to college and then the NFL. Returning now as the head coach is a full-circle moment-and a testament to the steady climb he’s made through the coaching ranks.
Inside the Chargers’ building, this move didn’t catch anyone off guard. Minter’s leadership, intelligence, and ability to connect with players made it clear he was destined for a bigger role. The Ravens’ job, with its strong defensive tradition and familiar surroundings, was simply too good to pass up.
The Bottom Line
Losing Jesse Minter is a blow for the Chargers-no sugarcoating that. He brought stability, innovation, and fire to a defense that desperately needed it. But it’s also a moment to celebrate what he accomplished in such a short time, and to recognize that this is exactly what happens when you hire great coaches: eventually, other teams come calling.
Now, it’s up to the Chargers to find the next leader who can build on what Minter started. And for the Ravens? They’re getting a coach who’s more than ready for the big chair.
One chapter closes in L.A., another begins in Baltimore. And for Jesse Minter, the future looks bright.