Turner completes staff

Tuesday, Feb 27, 2007
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

With Monday’s addition of secondary coach Kevin Ross and strength and conditioning coach Jeff Hurd, Head Coach Norv Turner’s staff is now complete. 

“We really feel like we’ve put together a strong group of coaches that are going to help us get where we want to go,” Turner said.  “I’m excited because there is a great mix of guys who have been here as well as new faces.  The coaches that have been here have a familiarity with the players and what we’re trying to do.  We’ve added some coaches that are going to bring another dimension and help us continue to grow.”

Turner’s commitment to continuity has carried over to the assembly of his staff.  The offensive staff features just two new faces.  Both tight ends coach Clancy Barone and running backs coach Matt Simon have experience working with Pro Bowl players and will bring new ideas to the group. 

On the defensive side of the ball, Turner brought in Ross and Bill Bradley to work with the secondary.  Both coaches have previously worked with defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell and are extremely familiar with the system that is in place.  

“It was important for us to make sure that when we get started there isn’t a dramatic change for the players,” Turner said.  “I believe the staff that we have put together will help as we aim for that smooth transition.  We’ve kept a large portion of the offensive staff intact, and defensively we’ve been able to hire guys that Ted (Cottrell) has been with.  They’re guys that have experience with what we want to do.”

Turner is also extremely excited about the hiring of linebackers coach Ron Rivera.  After spending the last three years as a defensive coordinator, Rivera’s unique perspective is expected to be a valuable asset in the game-planning process.

“Ron brings a new dimension,” Turner said.  “He’s going to add a lot to our staff and we’re all excited about having him with us.”

Defensive line coach Wayne Nunnely was the only assistant whose contract expired at the end of the 2006 season and, much to Turner’s pleasure, Nunnely will return for an 11th season with the Chargers. 

“One of the great things for me was Wayne continuing his position,” Turner said.  “He’s been such a strong part of what the Chargers have done defensively over the last few years.  I know those guys up front really love playing for him and working with him.”

The Chargers have granted the Dallas Cowboys permission to speak with secondary coach Brian Stewart.  Wade Phillips has expressed interest in hiring Stewart to become his defensive coordinator.

“With our ability to add Bill Bradley and Kevin Ross, Brian’s role would have been a lesser one on our staff,” Turner said.  “That being the case, we felt it would be appropriate to allow Dallas to speak with him.”

With all the position coaches in place, Turner is expected to add an assistant strength and conditioning coach in the coming days.