The Kansas City Chiefs are making strategic moves to stabilize their coaching staff for the 2026-27 NFL season, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Amid a period of uncertainty across the league, one key defensive coach who drew attention from multiple teams will remain with Kansas City after the organization blocked other interview requests. This move highlights the Chiefs’ commitment to continuity and leadership within their coaching ranks.
Veteran coach Matt House is set to return to the Chiefs as the outside linebackers coach, a promotion from his previous role as a senior defensive assistant. House, 47, has a wealth of experience and has been sought by other NFL organizations during this offseason.
Despite those requests, the Chiefs ensured he stayed on the staff, signaling that head coach Andy Reid values House‘s knowledge and consistency in guiding the defense. House’s retention also reflects the team’s desire to maintain a strong and experienced defensive leadership core amid roster and health uncertainties.
House joined the Chiefs in 2025 and brings over 20 years of coaching experience at both the professional and collegiate levels. His background includes serving as defensive coordinator for the LSU Tigers, Kentucky Wildcats, FIU Panthers, and Pittsburgh Panthers.
This extensive experience, combined with his time in the NFL, makes him well-suited to mentor the Chiefs’ outside linebackers and strengthen a defense that struggled with consistency last season.
The Chiefs’ defense finished the 2025-26 season ranked 10th in yards allowed, but the team’s overall performance fell short of expectations, ending with a 6-11 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014. That disappointing outcome underscores why Kansas City is prioritizing coaching stability this offseason, particularly for a defensive unit that needs strong guidance to rebound.
House’s role signals stability for Chiefs defense
By elevating House to the outside linebackers coach role, the Chiefs are providing steady leadership for a position group that is crucial to Steve Spagnuolo’s aggressive defensive scheme.
Outside linebackers are tasked with pressuring the quarterback, covering tight ends, and anchoring the run defense – areas where Kansas City will focus on improvement in 2026. Maintaining House in this position ensures continuity in coaching philosophy and prepares the unit for a rebound season.
This decision comes during a period of uncertainty for the Chiefs’ roster. Questions linger about tight end Travis Kelce’s future amid retirement rumors, while quarterback Patrick Mahomes continues his recovery from a torn ACL.
Retaining House amid these unknowns shows Kansas City is prioritizing experienced coaching to support player development and maintain stability in the locker room.
By keeping House and solidifying the defensive staff early, the Chiefs are hoping to provide a foundation for success despite lingering health concerns and key roster questions.