Chris Shula Emerges as Top NFL Head Coaching Candidate After Rams’ Defensive Dominance

The Los Angeles Rams boast one of the NFL‘s elite defenses this season. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula is the architect of that success. His work has now placed him firmly in the conversation for NFL head coaching jobs.

Multiple NFL teams are expected to pursue Shula this upcoming hiring cycle. According to Sports Illustrated, he has built a top-ten unit despite roster challenges. His innovative schemes have made the Rams a nightmare for opposing offenses.

From Assistant to Defensive Mastermind

Chris Shula’s rise with the Rams has been steady. He initially joined as an assistant linebackers coach under Sean McVay. He later earned the defensive coordinator role after Raheem Morris departed.

His defense excels in key analytical categories. It ranks high in rushing success rate and dropback EPA. The unit has held opponents to 10 points or fewer in five games this season.

Shula maximizes talent, especially in the secondary. He creates pressure without blitzing heavily. This strategic skill makes him highly attractive to teams seeking a new leader.

The McVay Coaching Tree Continues to Grow

Coaches from Sean McVay’s staff have found great success as head coaches. Shula appears to be the next branch from this proven tree. There was already league interest in him during the last hiring period.

His youth, at 38, is seen as a major asset. Teams are constantly searching for the next innovative defensive mind. Shula’s work transforming the Rams’ defense is a perfect case study.

This potential departure would be a significant loss for Los Angeles. It also highlights the organization’s strength in developing coaching talent. The Rams’ defensive success is a direct testament to Shula’s preparedness for a larger role.

Chris Shula’s rapid ascent makes him a premier NFL head coaching candidate this offseason. His proven ability to craft a dominant defense will command serious attention from owner searches across the league.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Chris Shula?

Chris Shula is the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. He has been instrumental in building their top-ranked defense. He is the grandson of Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Don Shula.

Why is Shula considered for a head coaching job?

He has designed one of the NFL’s most effective defenses this season. His unit performs well in advanced metrics like EPA. Teams value his strategic mind and ability to develop players.

Which teams might be interested in Shula?

Teams with head coaching vacancies that prioritize defensive leadership will likely call. Organizations looking for a young, innovative leader are key candidates. Specific teams will be known once the season ends.

What is the Sean McVay coaching tree?

It refers to assistant coaches who worked under McVay and later became head coaches. This includes coaches like Zac Taylor and Kevin O’Connell. The tree has a strong reputation for producing successful leaders.

How has the Rams’ defense performed under Shula?

The defense is a top-ten unit in key statistical measures. It has recorded multiple games holding opponents to ten points or fewer. The performance is notable given some roster limitations in the secondary.