Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo helped design and implement one of the most ferocious NFL defenses of this generation. Maybe it’s time he takes that genius elsewhere and sees if he can succeed as a head coach. The second time’s the charm, right? Certainly, the rest of the AFC West would not object.
It’s been a curious season for the defending Super Bowl champions. One could argue that Spagnuolo’s defense has been the driving force behind the Chiefs’ success. In fact, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that without Coach Spagnuolo, the rest of the AFC West might’ve caught up—though they’re getting closer (particularly, the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos).
Of course, we all know how Spagnuolo’s first shot as head coach went with the then-St. Louis Rams. Fresh off his successes—most notably with the New York Giants as their defensive coordinator—Spagnuolo was the young hotshot defensive mind that teams coveted.
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It’s a stark difference from where the league currently stands. Right now, losing teams such as the Las Vegas Raiders and Jacksonville Jaguars are lining up for a chance to hopefully land offensive minds such as Ben Johnson and Liam Coen–it’s where the NFL has been trending toward.
This season, perhaps more than any other with the Chiefs, shows why “Spags” is worthy of a second chance. He himself recently said that being a head coach is an opportunity he’d like to have again.
Statistically, it’d be difficult to find a better candidate to run your defense. The Chiefs are in the top five for several defensive categories, including points allowed (2nd), rushing yards allowed (4th), and red zone scoring defense (4th). Not too far behind, Spagnuolo’s defense has forced 20 turnovers on the season—13 interceptions and seven fumbles.
Once again, Spagnuolo’s resume demonstrates his exceptional abilities. Under his coaching, we consistently witness the fielding of an elite (or near-elite) defense. What might help take him over the top would be the highly sought “three-peat” for the Chiefs. Even still, a factor working against him is his age.
Even with a ringing endorsement from Andy Reid, many NFL teams will look to get “younger” this offseason. Worst-case scenario, the Chiefs will likely have Spagnuolo coaching the defense in 2025; best-case for Spagnuolo, he’ll get that elusive opportunity.
*Top Photo: Getty Images
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