Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Kellen Moore interviewed for their head coach opening last week. While he is a candidate for the position, a lot would have to happen in order for that to come to fruition.
That’s what makes Sunday night’s news so surprising. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Chicago Bears requested permission to speak with Moore about their open offensive coordinator job. Per Fowler, Los Angeles blocked the interview.
There is certainly a lot to look at here. Moore, 34, came over as the Chargers’ offensive coordinator under Brandon Staley ahead of the 2023 season. That came after he served four seasons in the same role with the Dallas Cowboys.
Moore’s offense finished 18th in total yards and 21st in scoring. It was not a great unit with Moore calling the shots. This also led to him being overlooked in favor of Giff Smith as the Chargers’ interim head coach once they fired Staley in December.
It’s an open question why Los Angeles blocked Moore’s interview with the Bears. Any new head coach, Jim Harbaugh included, would likely want to bring in his own offensive coordinator. Typically, new coaches move on from incumbent assistants when they are hired.
Related: Los Angeles Chargers head coach candidates
Los Angeles Chargers Could Retain Kellen Moore
Sunday’s news suggests that the Chargers believe any new head coach hire might want to retain Moore for the 2024 season. If it is indeed Harbaugh who lands in Southern California, he’d likely be calling plays. That would change the dynamics for the Chargers.
As it currently stands, Harbaugh is one of several candidates for the head coach opening. He’s joined by Raheem Morris, Ben Johnson, David Shaw, Aaron Glenn, Dan Quinn, Mike Vrabel, Brian Callahan, Leslie Frazier, Steve Wilks, Mike Macdonald, Todd Monken, Patrick Graham and the aforementioned Kellen Moore as known candidates for the opening.