Jim Leonhard’s name invokes the very best of diehard New York Jets fandom. It’s inarguable, really, and it’s time for some Jets film room to showcase that very sentiment…
Not only did Leonhard’s status as a Jets safety coincide with the last time the organization enjoyed playoff success (2009-2011), but he’s forever connected to one of the most popular head coaches in franchise history. Rex Ryan signed Leonhard the moment Woody Johnson tabbed him as Eric Mangini’s replacement, and the safety helped lead the Jets’ defense to top billing that season.
The man who served as Rex’s on-field extension helped lead the Jets’ defense to the best unit in both yards and points allowed in 2009. Of course, the 2010 team, which finished 11-5 and also qualified for the AFC championship game, was forced to do it without Leonard’s services — who hit IR in December — but the Wisconsin product’s place in Jets history lives today.
Naturally, when Jets fans hear Leonhard’s name as a potential defensive coordinator under head coach Aaron Glenn, thoughts of those Rexian glory days surface. Thus, thoughts of elaborate blitz schemes and quarterback pressure enter the mind, much as Rex introduced himself to the NFL head coaching ranks in 2009.
Although it’s likely Leonhard would offer a similar playstyle if given the chance to call defensive plays, that’s not how it would happen. These days, thanks to the quick-trigger nature of the passing game, the unique blitzes Ryan brought to the table are nearly obsolete.
Anything with a delayed reaction from the second level (linebacker, defensive back) doesn’t hit home in time. It’s part of the reason why every NFL defense “mugs” gaps in passing situations; defensive coordinators have no choice but to “show” blitz, if only to make the quarterback and offensive line think twice about fully committing to a specific pass protection.
In Leonhard’s case, it’ll be impossible to know what type of play-caller he’d be. As the Denver Broncos’ defensive pass-game coordinator under Vance Joseph, there’s no way of knowing.
At the very least, however, we can get a feel for his mindset and overall defensive feel while breaking down the Broncos’ pass coverage.
Video breakdown
The video breakdown below highlights the Denver Broncos’ pass coverage across various situations. Take note of the overall discipline Jim Leonhard’s group showcases against the pass.
The opponents in the breakdown include the Buffalo Bills in this past weekend’s divisional round, the Green Bay Packers, the Los Angeles Chargers, and the New York Jets.
Member-only bonus breakdown
The member-only content offers insight into some of Jim Leonhard’s pass coverages, some of which tilt the field away from Patrick Surtain (similar to Darrelle Revis under Rex Ryan). Plus, one of the plays features an incredibly valuable coverage technique that disrupts the offense’s timing.
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