Chargers to hire former NFL LB Sean Spence as LBs coach

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 10: Sean Spence #51 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field on December 10, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** | Getty Images

The Chargers have finally found their replacement for NaVorro Bowman as their linebackers coach.

Per NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Bolts are hiring former Steelers, Titans, and Colts linebacker Sean Spence to fill the role following Bowman stepping away to spend more time with his family, including his son who is a top high-school basketball prospect. Spence spent the past three seasons with Western Michigan where he most recently coached their pass rushers.

Sources: The #Chargers are hiring Sean Spence as their new inside linebackers coach.

Spence, a former NFL player, most recently coached at Western Michigan and at the Senior Bowl. Under his guidance, Nadame Tucker led the country in sacks and TFLs this past season. pic.twitter.com/4cvRHR4umr

- Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 13, 2026

Spence will follow new Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary to Los Angeles where the latter helped the former turn the Broncos defense into one of the best units in the country during the 2025 season. Spence personally coached Western Michigan pass rusher Nadame Tucker who ended the year with a nation-leading 14.5 sacks en route to earning First-Team All-MAC honors and being named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Tucker was also invited to participate in this year's Panini Senior Bowl where he competed with the nation's top senior talent.