Chargers Deny NFC Team's Interview Request for Assistant Coach

One of the most successful and well-liked coaches on the Los Angeles Chargers coaching staff seems to be staying in his current role. Special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken will continue in his position despite the New York Giants' request to interview him, according to Mike Garafolo.

The New York Giants recently fired longtime ST coordinator Thomas McGaughey, and are looking for a new coach. It shouldn't come as a surprise that they tried to lure Ficken away from Los Angeles, as the 43-year-old coach has completely transformed the Chargers since taking over in 2022.

In 2021, the Chargers were ranked 28th in special teams DVOA. In 2023, they were all the way up to second. His units consistently ranked high in PFF rankings and were arguably the best Chargers unit all year.

Ficken was responsible for the special teams unit that led the NFL by allowing only 3.1 yards per punt return. This was the best mark for the team in 50 seasons. The Chargers also had the AFC's best kicking unit with him at the helm, converting 94% of their field goal attempts, despite deploying three different kickers because of various injuries.

Therefore, it also makes sense for Los Angeles to hold onto their best coach on the staff, despite not having a head coach.

The Chargers continue their coach search, and that process might take a while. However, they still have many of Brandon Staley's assistants under contract. It will be important to have a strong assistant crew next to the new head coach. Whether Ficken will get a promotion or a salary raise remains to be seen, but it clearly behooves the Chargers to keep him around regardless.

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