Ravens Request Interview with Broncos' Jim Leonhard for Defensive Coordinator

Leonhard has been a popular name on the defensive coordinator interview circuit this offseason.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:31am

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The Baltimore Ravens have requested an interview with Jim Leonhard, the Broncos' assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator, for their vacant defensive coordinator position. Leonhard has also drawn interest from the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Chargers this offseason as teams look to fill their defensive coordinator roles.

Why it matters

Leonhard has established himself as a rising star in the coaching ranks, with previous experience as the defensive coordinator at the University of Wisconsin and a brief stint as the school's interim head coach. His NFL playing experience with both the Bills and Ravens could make him an attractive candidate to lead the Ravens' defense.

The details

Leonhard has spent the last two seasons with the Broncos, serving as the assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Prior to that, he was the defensive coordinator at Wisconsin from 2017 to 2022, where he also had a brief stint as the interim head coach in his final season. As a player, Leonhard had stints with both the Bills and Ravens during his NFL career as a safety.

  • Leonhard has been on the defensive coordinator interview circuit this offseason.
  • The Chargers hired Chris O'Leary as their defensive coordinator on Wednesday night, removing them from the list of teams interested in Leonhard.

The players

Jim Leonhard

Broncos' assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator, with previous experience as the defensive coordinator at the University of Wisconsin and a brief stint as the school's interim head coach.

Baltimore Ravens

An NFL team that has requested an interview with Jim Leonhard for their vacant defensive coordinator position.

Buffalo Bills

An NFL team that has also shown interest in Jim Leonhard for their defensive coordinator position this offseason.

Los Angeles Chargers

An NFL team that was previously interested in Jim Leonhard for their defensive coordinator position, but have since hired Chris O'Leary for the role.

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What they’re saying

“Jim Leonhard continues to be a popular name on the defensive coordinator interview circuit.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN reporter (nbcsports.com)

What’s next

The Ravens will interview Jim Leonhard for their defensive coordinator position in the coming days or weeks.

The takeaway

Jim Leonhard's strong reputation as a rising coaching talent has made him a sought-after candidate for defensive coordinator positions around the NFL this offseason. His previous experience at the college and professional levels, as well as his playing career with the Bills and Ravens, could make him an attractive option for the Ravens as they look to fill their defensive coordinator role.