After another game where the Chargers gave up 475+ yards and a specific 40+ point outburst by Detroit on Sunday, Brandon Staley was asked at his press conference about potential changes on defense. However, the status quo is being maintained.
At his Wednesday media availability, Staley said he will still call plays on defense:
Brandon Staley said he will continue calling defensive plays.
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) November 15, 2023
The Chargers currently rank 29th in defense and special teams EPA, per TruMedia Sports. In Staley’s tenure as the primary defensive play caller, the Chargers’ highest finish was 20th in the NFL in 2022. In 2021, the Bolts’ defense ranked 30th.
Coaches giving up playcalling has occurred in some situations. Nick Sirianni gave up offensive play calling during his first year in Philadelphia to Shane Steichen. This year, Panthers head coach Frank Reich gave up offensive play calling and took it back from Thomas Brown.
Interestingly, the Chargers did experiment with defensive coordinator Derrick Ansley partially calling the plays in the preseason. Staley and Ansley split responsibilities throughout the Chargers’ three games of their preseason campaign.
Staley has maintained full autonomy as the Chargers’ defensive playcaller since he was hired in 2021. With the Bolts fighting for their playoff lives, one has to wonder if this decision could change weekly as his seat becomes hotter.
Staley will need a better performance from his unit at Lambeau Field this week against the Packers. His defense will need some positive momentum before playing the explosive Baltimore Ravens on Sunday Night Football the following week.