From Indiana State WR to Rising NFL Defensive Coordinator
Chris O'Leary, a wide receiver for Indiana State Sycamores from 2011-14, transitioned seamlessly into elite coaching, developing All-Pro Derwin James Jr. (93 tackles, 5.5 sacks in 2024) en route to the Chargers' NFL-top 17.7 PPG scoring defense; his safeties led the league in sacks (6.5) and ranked 3rd in passer rating allowed (75.9). Known for infectious 'juice' and player development—like converting Notre Dame's Xavier Watts into a star—O'Leary's intensity and scheme mastery make him a perfect fit for any program seeking defensive turnarounds and culture builders.
