Underappreciated Chiefs Figure Called ‘Backbone’ of KC Super Bowl Runs

Pro Football Network has ranked Steve Spagnuolo as the second-best defensive coordinator in the NFL and the top coordinator in the AFC. Analysts credit Spagnuolo as the "backbone" of the Kansas City Chiefs' dynasty, guiding the team to five Super Bowl appearances and three championships since becoming defensive coordinator in 2019. While the Chiefs' defense ranked 14th in Defense+ in consecutive seasons, Spagnuolo's philosophy of generating pressure with blitzes has kept them in the top five for fewest points allowed per game in recent years.

The article notes that Spagnuolo faced initial criticism but, after implementing his system and acquiring the right players, his defense became crucial to the Chiefs' success. Key players like Chris Jones, Trent McDuffie, George Karlaftis, and Nick Bolton developed into irreplaceable parts of the unit. Heading into 2025, the Chiefs defense remains largely intact, contributing to what the article suggests could be their most well-rounded roster in years.

The top-ranked defensive coordinator was Vic Fangio of the Philadelphia Eagles. Pro Football Network highlighted Fangio's "remarkable" turnaround of the Eagles defense, which jumped from 30th in their Defense+ metric in 2023 to second in 2024. The Eagles finished second in points allowed per game (17.8) in 2024 with one of the league's lowest blitz rates, utilizing disguised coverages effectively. Analysts called Fangio a "defensive mastermind" who played a massive role in the Eagles' Super Bowl victory, crediting the defense for leading the way despite the offense often receiving more attention.