Rams’ masterclass just sprouted Sean McVay coaching tree’s next big name

When the Los Angeles Rams learned former defensive coordinator Raheem Morris had accepted the head coaching position for the Atlanta Falcons, Seah McVay's own coaching staff had to fill the position. Unlike previous hirings, LA turned to long-time positional coach Chris Shula to take over. Shula had been with McVay in various roles, and he made the most compelling case to fill the vacancy.

After an impressive showing in the 2025 playoffs, the defense picked right up where it left off, only better. Los Angles added a stingy run defense to an already devastating pass rush.

The result? After seven games, the Rams have the No. 2 defense in the NFL in terms of points allowed and the 12th overall defense in terms of yards surrendered. That type of production gets noticed.

So much so that one NFL insider, Peter Schrager, is already throwing Shula's name into the next NFL coaching carousel.

But there is far more to this story than production.

Per Over The Cap, LA is spending the second least amount of money on the defensive side of the football. And it's getting premium results. While that will change over time, the fact remains that nobody is getting more from less right now than Shula.

Chris Shula will become a head coach in 2026

Shula didn't receive an interview after the 2024 season because his defense was not headline news. But after the defense showed up impressively in the playoffs, he was almost certainly added to the list of names to watch.

Right now, he is one of the hottest coaching candidates in the NFL.

We needn't fool ourselves. Having the surname of Shula will get almost anyone noticed in NFL circles. But that only gets a coach noticed. What will seal the deal is an instinctive set of abilities that includes:

Effectively communicating and motivating players
Insightful assessment of players and the ability to find the right players for specific roles
An ability to work with personnel execs and scouts to clearly identify optimal traits and players
The ability to compromise, to find value in lesser-known players
A flexible and effective strategy

Shula checks all the boxes.

The defense was shredded by Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley last season. This year, Shula's defense has faced seven of the NFL's most productive running backs, and has neutralized all but one completely. While Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry did rush for over 100 yards in Week 6, he did not help his team score a single touchdown.

The secret is out, and there is nothing fans can do to stop it. This is likely the last year for Shula to be LA's defensive coordinator.

As always, thanks for reading.

Chris Shula will become a head coach in 2026

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