LATEST REPORT: Sean McVay Revealed His Decision To Promote Chris Shula To Defensive Coordinator

Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams is accustomed to changing out members of his coaching staff during the offseason.

Key coordinators have left for other possibilities since McVay took over as head coach of the Rams. Raheem Morris, the previous defensive coordinator, was hired by the Atlanta Falcons as head coach this season, which was a decision made by McVay.

McVay changed course and elevated Chris Shula to the position of defensive coordinator for the Rams when Morris left. McVay explained his decision to side with Shula in great detail.

“Yes, I do believe there was a great opportunity. Chris and (Defensive Backs Coach) Aubrey Pleasant are two outstanding internal candidates that I believe will play a major role in leading our team going forward, especially on the defensive side,” McVay remarked.

“Chris has spent the entire seven years here. He can play the game to a considerable extent. His coaching experience at all three levels of the defense has probably been beneficial. He has coached both the inside backs and the outside linebackers. He has experience with the locks. He has a clear family history. He has a strong interest in the game. He has a clear idea of how he wants to appear. He is very well-organized and has excellent teamwork abilities.

There were many deserving applicants, but I believe that his background, his preparation, and his various actions have allowed him to not only establish himself as a strong candidate but also to position himself to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. I have a great deal of faith in him and am thrilled for him.

Shula’s experience with the system and McVay made him a logical candidate for the Rams, though now he has to prove that he was worth the promotion when the 2024 season rolls around.

Sean McVay discusses Chris Shula’s suitability for the Rams.

McVay not only explained the rationale behind promoting Shula but also why he believes the two will be a good fit.

“Well, I think there are a lot of similarities. We both come from a football family. We’re both passionate about that and really, we’ve been close ever since we played football together at Miami of Ohio. Whether when we’re visiting in offseasons before we had worked together, there was just consistent core beliefs in some of the cultural things, leadership, just passion for the game whether that’s professional, whether that’s collegiately, whether that’s even some of the high school stuff.

Simply a wonderful individual. He’s a wonderful father, spouse, and friend. Chris Shula is one of those people that makes it difficult for anyone to not fall in love with him. Because he is always there for you, he’s the person that makes everyone feel like they have their best buddy. He is very genuine. He’s been ready for this chance and exudes a refreshing sense of self-assurance. I’m thrilled because I believe he has a ton of excellent coaches behind him and that he is truly prepared to help these athletes reach their full potential.