Chargers Re-Sign John Pagano & Promote Frank Reich to Offensive Coordinator

San Diego,CA- The San Diego Chargers today have resigned defensive coordinator John Pagano to a new contract and promoted quarterback coach Frank Reich to offensive coordinator.

Pagano has been with the Chargers since 2002 as a assistant coach and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2012.

Pagano’s defense struggled at times this season due to inexperience and injuries, but improved vastly as the season progressed leading to the Chargers late season postseason run. The Chargers defense under Pagano despite it’s struggles this season, it did have it’s moments as the defense was dominant during their four game winning streak at the end of the season and the Chargers 27-10 playoff win against the Bengals.

Reich fills the vacancy that was left by Ken Whisenhunt who left the Chargers earlier this week to become the Head Coach of the Tennessee Titans. This will be Reich’s first opportunity as an offensive coordinator in the NFL.

Philip Rivers drastically improved under Reich’s tutelage this season and and has earned the respect of Chargers Head Coach Mike McCoy and Philip Rivers, as they told Chargers.com Ricky Henne.

"“With Frank as offensive coordinator, we will be able to maintain continuity on offense and help maximize the production by Philip and the entire unit,” McCoy said. “He has a great feel for the offense we have created and he has been a valuable asset to Philip and all of the quarterbacks.”“Frank has been great,” Rivers said. “It is great having him. He is a heck of a coach. His steadiness from week to week, the way he helps prepare us and coaches is second to none. His playing career obviously helps and his preparation. His fourteen years of playing experience is valuable in itself, because there is a guy that stood in the pocket and can relate to you on a personal level, because he has done it. He is a heck of a teacher. It was great having him and it was a great first year start with him.”"

Reich has also served as an assistant coach with the Arizona Cardinals and Indianapolis Colts the past few years.