Several NFL sources are reporting that San Francisco offensive coordinator Norv Turner and Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan are the leading candidates to fill San Diego’s head coaching vacancy.
Given that this is GM Alex Smith’s first head coaching hire, Turner would be a logical fit because he has the most NFL experience and would be the safe move. Ironically, however, when Turner was the head coach in Oakland in 2004 and ’05, he managed only one win against AFC West opponents. At least he’s familiar with the organization – he was San Diego’s OC in ’01 – and unlike the recently departed Marty Schottenheimer, will be on speaking terms with Smith.
Ryan would be a great fit. He’s used to running the 3-4 in Baltimore and the Chargers’ front office is rumored to have the ‘defense wins championships’ mindset. Two more defensive coordinators scheduled for an interview are Ron Rivera (Chicago) and Mike Zimmer (formerly of Dallas, now with Atlanta). Two names to cross off: USC head coach Pete Carroll and Seahawks’ secondary/assistant head coach Jim Mora.
