Ep. 497 - Chargers 2026 Defensive Breakdown: New DC Chris O’Leary, Defensive Depth & What’s Still Missing

The Los Angeles Chargers enter 2026 with plenty of intrigue on the defensive side of the ball. With Chris O'Leary stepping in as defensive coordinator, what could this unit become?
In this episode, we break down Chris O’Leary’s defensive philosophy, how the current roster fits his scheme, where the Chargers have real depth across the defense, and which remaining holes could still hold the unit back. From the pass rush and secondary to linebacker rotation and overall versatility, we’re looking at both the biggest strengths and biggest question marks—and what the ceiling could be if everything clicks.

Can this defense become a true difference-maker for the Chargers in 2026? Let’s dive in.  

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Chargers Unleashed Hosts: Jake Hefner (@JakeTHefner) and Dan Wolkenstein
(@DanWSports)

Blueprints Host: Jason Balliet (@Syntari13)

Chargers Unleashed Podcast, and Blueprints, are weekly Chargers
podcasts, part of the LAFB Network, covering all things Los Angeles
Chargers. Chargers Unleashed and Blueprints provide listeners with
unique and refreshing perspectives on the latest in Chargers news and
storylines, along with special guest appearances, player interviews,
off-season discussions for NFL Draft, Free Agency, training camps, and
weekly updates surrounding Los Angeles Chargers for fans around the
globe. Tune in for Chargers interviews, Chargers news, and more!

Chargers players discussed include Justin aHerbert, Derwin James, Joey
Bosa, Khalil Mack, Rashawn Slater, Josh Palmer, Asante Samuel Jr, Daiyan
Henley, Quentin Johnston, Tuli Tuipulotu, and much more. We also discuss
Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, OC Greg Roman, DC Jesse Minter and the
rest of the Chargers coaching staff. The LA Chargers 2024 draft class: 1
OT Joe Alt 2 WR Ladd McConkey 3  LB Junior Colson 4  DL Justin Eboigbe
5  CB Tarheeb Still 5  CB Cam Hart 6  RB Kimani Vidal 7  WR Brenden Rice
7  WR Cornelius Johnson

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