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.     Subscribe to Chargers Unleashed Podcast: https://youtube.com/c/chargersunleashedpodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/LAC_Unleashed Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChargersUnleashed Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chargersunleashed   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   THANK YOU PARTNERS! This episode of Chargers Unleashed is brought to you by:   *** This episode is brought to you  by Mint Mobile: Go to our partner http://trymintmobile.com/chargersunleashed to get premium wireless for as low as $15 a month -  Limited time offer. New activation and upfront payment for 3 mo. service required. Taxes & fees extra. Unlimited plans using more than 40GB/mo. will experience lower speeds with video streams at ~480p. Restrictions apply.   ***Ombré*** Go to https://ombremen.com/ and use the code UNLEASHED for 20% off your first order. Men's personal care that is crafted for the modern man who prioritize quality, sustainability, and convenience.   ***Head over to BetOnline.ag on your desktop or your mobile device to sign up today and receive your 50% Welcome Bonus on your first deposit! Just use our Promo Code: BLEAV to get started.   ***RSSM Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.