Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus continues to be a sought after candidate in league head coaching vacancies, as the Los Angeles Chargers are the latest NFL team to request permission for an interview for their open job (via NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport):
The #Chargers have requested permission to speak with #Colts DC Matt Eberflus, source said. That’s three for him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 4, 2021
The 50 year old defensive coordinator just completed his 3rd season with Indianapolis and helped coach one of the league’s most improved units—which at times, was elite during 2020:
The Colts were tied for the 5th most takeaways (25) during 2020.
The Colts also were tied for allowing the 10th fewest points (22.6 ppg.) and boasted the league’s 2nd best rushing defense, allowing just 90.5 rushing yards per game.
Prior to joining Indianapolis, Eberflus served as the Dallas Cowboys linebackers coach and passing game coordinator (2011-2017) and the Cleveland Browns linebackers coach (2009-10).
Eberflus has coached a fast, athletic, and swarming ‘Cover 2’ defense with the Colts—and should he depart for a head coaching job elsewhere, it’s hard not to think that Indianapolis won’t try to find another disciple of his same defensive scheme.
With the team just a piece or two from seriously contending (i.e., one offseason), it wouldn’t make sense for the Colts to have a defensive scheme shift—as overhauling defensive personnel can take some time, and Indianapolis is essentially built to win now.
Still, Eberflus has helped develop and coach up players such as Darius Leonard, Kenny Moore, Bobby Okereke, Khari Willis, Grover Stewart, Julian Blackmon, and Anthony Walker, his loss would remain a big one for the Colts coaching staff.
Leave a Reply