Jim Leonhard, a former Wisconsin Badgers legend, is making waves in the NFL coaching scene! But where exactly is he headed?
Leonhard, a Wisconsin native and former player and coach for the Badgers, is currently making headlines for his coaching prowess. He's part of the Denver Broncos coaching staff, who are gearing up for a playoff game as the AFC's top-seeded team. But that's not all—Leonhard is also in the running for an NFL defensive coordinator position, a role that could be a significant milestone in his already impressive coaching journey.
The NFL's Interest in Leonhard's Talent:
Leonhard, currently the Broncos' assistant head coach and pass game coordinator, has been busy this week. He's interviewed for open positions with two teams: the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Jets. This is a bold move, especially considering the Jets and Cowboys had the worst scoring defenses in the NFL in 2025. But Leonhard's expertise is in defense, and he's no stranger to turning defenses around.
A Rising Coaching Star:
Leonhard's coaching career has been on an upward trajectory. At 43, he's already in his second season with the Broncos, who have one of the league's top defenses. In 2024, he joined the Broncos as their defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator, and his impact was immediate. He added the role of assistant head coach in 2025, further solidifying his importance to the team.
A Defensive Maestro:
Leonhard's defensive prowess is well-documented. From 2017 to 2022, he served as the Badgers' defensive coordinator, and during his tenure, Wisconsin's defense was consistently among the nation's best. In four out of five seasons, they ranked in the top five for total defense and the top 10 for scoring defense. This is a testament to Leonhard's strategic mind and ability to lead a defense.
Controversy and Coaching Changes:
In 2022, Leonhard faced a coaching controversy. After five games, he was named interim head coach following the firing of Paul Chryst. However, the permanent role was given to Luke Fickell, who has had a less successful tenure so far. This decision sparked debates among fans and experts, leaving many wondering what could have been if Leonhard had been given the chance.
From Undrafted to Unstoppable:
Leonhard's playing career is a testament to his determination. Despite going undrafted, he played in the NFL for a decade (2005-2014) and suited up for five teams, including the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, and Cleveland Browns. His journey from an unheralded player to a respected coach is an inspiring one.
So, as Leonhard's coaching career continues to soar, the question remains: which NFL team will be the next to benefit from his defensive genius? And will he get the chance to lead a defense as a coordinator? The NFL coaching carousel never stops turning, and Leonhard's story is one to watch.
