One of the best defenses in the NFL last season needed to fill a coaching position after former safeties coach Chris O’Leary, left to become the defensive coordinator at Western Michigan.
The Los Angeles Chargers — who surrendered the fewest points in the NFL in 2024 — are set to make a significant addition to their coaching staff under head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Former Florida State defensive coordinator Adam Fuller is expected to join the team as their new safeties coach according to Pete Thamel via X. Fuller, a seasoned veteran in the college coaching ranks, has never coached in the NFL before.
Fuller spent five years as Florida State’s defensive coordinator, helping to revitalize a Seminoles defense that had struggled in prior years. But, a tumultuous 2024 campaign for the Seminoles ended with some coaches being let go, including Fuller.
Early in his tenure at Florida State, Fuller faced criticism for the defense’s performance, particularly in 2020 and 2021, as the team was rebuilding. But in 2023, things began to change. The defense ranked among the top in the ACC in 2023 and was particularly strong in limiting explosive plays and improving pass coverage.
Prior to his work at Florida State, Fuller served as the defensive coordinator at Memphis and Marshall (where he was also the safeties coach).
He briefly served as the head coach at Assumption College in 2008, before continuing a career specializing in defense.
Now, he takes on a key role with the Chargers, where he’ll be tasked with coaching an already talented safeties group led by star Derwin James. Fuller also coached cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. back in 2020.
The hire aligns with Harbaugh’s vision for a more physical and adaptable defense in 2025. With Fuller’s extensive knowledge of the defensive side of the ball, the Chargers are hoping he can take their defense to the next level as he has done many times before.
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