Former Buffalo Bills defensive back Jim Leonhard is making waves in the NFL coaching world. The 41-year-old coach has recently joined the Denver Broncos’ staff as a secondary coach, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano. Leonhard’s hiring marks a rapid ascent in his coaching career.
Leonhard, who is highly respected in coaching circles, spent the last seven years in the college ranks. He began as the defensive coordinator for the University of Wisconsin, where he had a successful five-year stint. Afterward, he served as the interim head coach before transitioning to a defensive analyst role at Illinois in 2023.
This isn’t the first time Leonhard has garnered interest from the NFL. In 2021, he turned down an opportunity to become the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator. He also interviewed for the defensive coordinator opening with the Philadelphia Eagles in February 2023.
As a former NFL defensive back, Leonhard brings valuable experience and knowledge to the Broncos’ coaching staff. His addition is expected to strengthen the team’s secondary and contribute to their overall success.
The move to hire Leonhard as the Denver Broncos’ DB Coach has generated plenty of discussion among football enthusiasts. Many are intrigued by the decision and eager to see how it will impact the team’s performance.
Leonhard’s NFL Job Prospects: What’s Next for the Former Bills Player?
In a surprising turn of events, it seems that Jimmy Leonhard, former Buffalo Bills player, may not be heading to the NFL just yet. Despite expectations from those close to him, including Illinois coach Bret Bielema, Leonhard’s future remains uncertain.
Bielema revealed in a recent interview that he and Leonhard have had numerous conversations about his career prospects. Bielema stated, “If he doesn’t have the things he wants at a different level than our level – not college – I think we’ll be back at it.” This suggests that Leonhard may be considering a return to his college job if he doesn’t find the right opportunity in the NFL.
Leonhard’s journey in football has been an impressive one. After a successful career at Wisconsin, he entered the NFL as an undrafted rookie with the Bills in 2005. Despite the odds being against him, Leonhard managed to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster that season. Over the course of his career, he played in multiple games and made significant contributions to the team.
The former Bills player had a particularly memorable season in 2013 when he returned to Buffalo. With 41 total tackles and a career-high four interceptions, Leonhard showcased his skills and proved his worth to the league. It’s no surprise that he has caught the attention of several teams and coaches.
Interestingly, Leonhard is not the only former Bills player who has found success in coaching roles. Frank Reich, a former Bills quarterback, served as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers before being let go in November. Another former Bills quarterback, Alex Van Pelt, recently landed a job as the offensive coordinator for the New England Patriots.
Upon hearing the news of Van Pelt’s new position, Bills legend Jim Kelly expressed his congratulations. Kelly also jokingly forgave Van Pelt for joining their divisional rival, the Patriots. He recalled a similar situation when Thurman Thomas, another Bills player, joined the Miami Dolphins, expressing his disappointment.
As Leonhard’s future hangs in the balance, fans and supporters eagerly await news of his next move. Will he land an NFL job or return to his college roots? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting chapter in Leonhard’s career.
According to the Source heavy.com