Hold onto your helmets, football fans, because Jim Leonhard’s coaching journey is taking a thrilling turn—and it’s one you won’t want to miss. The former Wisconsin Badgers star is making waves in the NFL, not just as part of the Denver Broncos’ coaching staff but as a top contender for defensive coordinator roles with two struggling franchises. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a college coaching standout like Leonhard truly transform the NFL’s worst defenses into powerhouse units? Let’s dive in.
This week has been nothing short of whirlwind for Leonhard. As the Broncos’ assistant head coach and pass game coordinator, he’s already part of the AFC’s top-seeded team, gearing up for a playoff showdown on January 17. But that’s not all—Leonhard has also thrown his hat into the ring for defensive coordinator positions with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets. And this is the part most people miss: Both teams ranked dead last in scoring defense in 2025, making Leonhard’s potential hire a high-stakes gamble. Could he be the game-changer they desperately need?
Leonhard’s rise in the coaching ranks has been nothing short of impressive. At just 43, he’s already in his second season with the Broncos, who boast one of the league’s most formidable defenses. His journey began in 2024 as the team’s defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator, and he added the title of assistant head coach in 2025. But his defensive expertise isn’t new—Leonhard served as the Badgers’ defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2022, leading the team to top-five total defense and top-10 scoring defense rankings four times in five seasons.
Yet, Leonhard’s path hasn’t been without setbacks. After being named interim head coach for the Badgers in 2022 following Paul Chryst’s firing, he was ultimately passed over for the permanent role in favor of Luke Fickell. Despite this, Leonhard’s resilience shines through. He spent one more season in college as a senior football analyst at Illinois under Bret Bielema before making the leap to the NFL—a move that mirrors his underdog story as a player.
Speaking of his playing days, Leonhard’s journey from undrafted free agent to a 10-year NFL veteran is nothing short of inspiring. From 2005 to 2014, he played for five teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, Jets, Broncos, and Cleveland Browns, defying expectations at every turn. Now, as a coach, he’s poised to do it again—but can he?
Here’s the bold question: If Leonhard lands one of these defensive coordinator roles, will he be the savior these teams need, or is the challenge too great even for a coaching prodigy? Let’s spark some debate—do you think Leonhard has what it takes to turn around the NFL’s worst defenses? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
