RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesThe Chargers ' defense heads into the 2026 season with a new play-caller.
After the departure of Jesse Minter, who did a stellar job in two seasons before becoming the head coach of the Ravens , Chris O'Leary will take over the defensive coordinator role.
The group should be a sight to see, but here is the one player at each position that people should have their eyes on in training camp.
Defensive line: Jamaree Caldwell
Selected in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Oregon, the 340-pound nose tackle proved to be a highly durable and reliable presence during his rookie year, appearing in all 17 regular-season games. He logged 14 solo tackles and a forced fumble. Now, as the defensive front undergoes a structural shift, training camp will highlight his progression from a depth piece into a focal point of the run-stopping rotation.
Edge rusher: Akheem Mesidor
Drafted No. 22 overall out of Miami in the 2026 NFL Draft, Mesidor capped his collegiate career with an elite 12.5-sack season before joining the Bolts. Entering training camp, the coaching staff plans to heavily utilize him across multiple alignments. Watch for how Mesidor integrates alongside veterans Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, and how he is able to generate pressure.
Linebacker: Junior Colson
Entering his third season, Colson faces a crucial pivot point in his NFL career. He has not lived up to expectations after being a former college standout at Michigan. Colson's 2025 season was entirely derailed when a severe shoulder injury forced him to miss the whole year. Now fully cleared and healthy, Colson is fighting for a spot in a highly competitive linebacker room.
Cornerback: Donte Jackson
Coming off a career-reviving campaign in which he led the team with 12 passes defensed and tied for the team lead with four interceptions, Jackson was statistically one of the NFL's premier zone cover corners last season. Now navigating a contract year and playing under new defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary, Jackson's camp focus centers on establishing veteran continuity alongside Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still.
Safety: Genesis Smith
Smith arrives at training camp as one of the most intriguing additions to the roster. The former Arizona safety earned All-Big 12 honors after demonstrating elite ball skills, highlighted by five collegiate interceptions. Smith generated noticeable buzz during spring workouts. He is firmly positioned to challenge for the third safety role in the secondary. While solid in coverage, Smith must show improvement in the tackling department.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers training camp: 1 player to watch at each defensive position
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