Jesse Minter is departing Michigan to become the new defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, joining Jim Harbaugh in his coaching staff.
Michigan’s defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter, is set to join Jim Harbaugh on the coaching staff of the Los Angeles Chargers, according to information from The Michigan Insider’s Sam Webb. Minter personally informed several Wolverines defensive players of his decision after meeting with them on Saturday morning. In his return to the NFL, Minter will assume the role of defensive coordinator with the Chargers, having previously served as a defensive assistant with the Baltimore Ravens.
During his two-year tenure as Michigan’s defensive coordinator, Minter played a key role in producing a top-10 nationally ranked defensive unit in points allowed, total defense, and run defense. Michigan’s defense, under Minter’s guidance, excelled in the 2023 season, leading the FBS in both scoring defense (10.4) and total defense (247.0) on their way to securing a College Football Playoff National Championship. Minter’s coaching prowess earned him recognition as a finalist for the Broyles Award, an annual accolade presented to the best assistant coach in college football.
Minter, who previously signed a contract extension with Michigan in April, emerged as one of the most sought-after assistant coaches in college football. Despite being considered for NFL vacancies and even as a potential replacement head coach at Michigan, he has decided to follow Jim Harbaugh to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Before joining the Michigan coaching staff in 2022, Minter served as the defensive coordinator and safety coach at Vanderbilt in 2021. His coaching journey includes a four-year stint as a defensive assistant with the Baltimore Ravens under coach John Harbaugh. Minter’s coaching career began with roles at Notre Dame, Cincinnati Bearcats, Indiana State (as a linebackers coach and later defensive coordinator), and Georgia State (as defensive coordinator).
