From Michigan, another coach is on his way to the Los Angeles Chargers. The Chargers recruited another former Wolverine, Jesse Minter, to serve as their defensive coordinator in 2024, the team announced Tuesday. Minter was hired shortly after former Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh was hired.
During his two seasons as Michigan’s defensive coordinator, Minter contributed to the team’s 2023 national championship. On Tuesday, he formally said the school farewell on social media.
“To everyone at Michigan, especially the players, nothing but love. The 40-year-old said, “We had a great journey together,” alongside a picture of coaches and players, including Harbaugh.
During his stint at Michigan, Minter’s defense was the best in the country in terms of fewest points allowed (13.1 points per game) and yards per play allowed (4.5). In 2022, he was a nominee for the Broyles Award, which recognizes the best assistant coach in the country. Minter was Vanderbilt’s 2021 defensive coordinator and safeties coach prior to coming to Michigan. Working alongside Jim’s brother, John Harbaugh, as the defensive assistant for the Baltimore Ravens, he started his NFL career in 2017. He remained with the Ravens through 2020, serving as both the defensive backs coach and assistant defensive backs coach.
The Chargers are adding several former Michigan players besides Minter. According to ESPN, L.A. is also anticipated to appoint Mike Elston, the defensive line coach for Wolverine, to a similar role. The Chargers ranked 24th in average points allowed (23.4) and 28th in average yards allowed (362.9) in 2023. The Chargers’ defense has been lacking lately as it has not been able to win close games for the club.
