As the 2023 season comes to a close, the Chargers will head into the offseason head coach hiring cycle for the first time in three years. Unlike the 2021 process, they will also look for a new general manager to take control of the franchise’s football operations for the first time since 2013.
One candidate that has been floated around in several early reports is Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn. Quinn spent six seasons as head coach of the Falcons after meticulously crafting the “Legion of Boom” defense with the Seahawks. After Atlanta lost their first five games in 2020, Quinn was given the boot in a mid-season firing.
As mentioned earlier, Quinn has been with Dallas as DC under head coach Mike McCarthy for three seasons. From a results standpoint, the Cowboys got what they were asking for in a defensive upgrade. Dallas’ 2020 defense ranked 21st in EPA/play before the arrival of Quinn. Since 2021, the Cowboys’ defense has been at least top four in EPA/play every season. 3rd in 2021, 2nd in 2022 and 4th in 2023.
Suppose the Chargers wanted to go with a defensive-minded head coach. In that case, Quinn is easily the most qualified after having several great seasons as a defensive coordinator and a head coaching tenure that resulted in a Super Bowl run. From a resume standpoint, only someone like Bill Belichick could top his success as a defensive coach.
He has interviewed in two previous head coaching cycles since becoming Cowboys’ DC in 2021 but has withdrawn his name both times. Earlier this week, Quinn said, “I think it’s important to know how to compartmentalize,” in regards to finishing out the 2023 campaign with Dallas.
There’s been a buzz around the potential pairing of Quinn and Chargers offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. If LA didn’t want to overhaul the coaching staff completely, bringing Quinn on board could hint at a partnership with Moore. After all, they’ve already proven their synergy during their two years as coordinators in Dallas.
From Moore’s perspective, he probably didn’t get the boost in his resume that he was hoping for following the Chargers’ rocky season under Staley. But with Quinn’s hiring, Moore could get another shot to prove himself as a head coach candidate. And the best part? He wouldn’t have to overhaul the offensive system around Herbert. This could be a win-win situation for both parties.
Another speculation of Quinn building out a potential staff is Cowboys defensive backs coach Al Harris potentially coming with him. Harris could work as Quinn’s defensive coordinator or defensive backs coach. The skill in the development of several key Dallas defensive backs, like Trevon Diggs, Daron Bland, and others, would certainly be appealing for the Chargers as they rebuild their defense.
There’s a good reason why most would project an offensive-minded head coach to lead the organization, but defensive coordinators shouldn’t be ruled out entirely. Suppose the Chargers wanted to go with a defensive-minded head coach again. In that case, Quinn is easily the most qualified of that group, with several successful coordinator seasons and previous head coach experience.
