“The fact that I’ve had the chance to be in defensive meetings with Chuck and watch him lead the defensive staff made it an easy decision to name him our defensive coordinator,” said Oakland Raiders Head Coach Hue Jackson. “I am impressed with his passion, attention to detail and energy. This staff gives us the opportunity to have one of the top defenses in the NFL.”
Bresnahan coached Raiders defensive backs (1998-99), then became defensive coordinator for the Silver and Black (2000-03). Under Bresnahan in 2002 when the Silver and Black represented the AFC in the Super Bowl, the Raiders defense ranked among the league leaders in least points allowed per game, least rushing yards per attempt and fewest rushing yards allowed per game.
“This is an incredible opportunity for me to come back to the Raiders and work again where we had so many great years,” said Bresnahan. “It’s so exciting to be reunited with Hue Jackson because of the passion and energy that he brings. I’m also thrilled to be a part of this talented staff, many of whom I’ve shared previous success with.”
Bresnahan was defensive coordinator of the Florida Tuskers of the UFL in 2010 after serving as linebackers coach in 2009. Bresnahan spent four seasons on the Cincinnati Bengals coaching staff, including the final three as defensive coordinator.
From 1996-97, Bresnahan was linebackers coach with the Indianapolis Colts. From 1994-95, he coached linebackers with the Cleveland Browns. Bresnahan was defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at the University of Maine from 1992-93.
From 1988-91, he was an assistant at Georgia Tech, handling tight ends in his first season, then moving to inside linebackers for the final three seasons. During his stint at Georgia Tech, the school earned a share of the 1990 National Championship.
Before joining the coaching ranks as a graduate assistant in 1983 for the Naval Academy, Bresnahan was a three-year letterman, where he helped claim three Commander-in-Chief Trophies. He coached wide receivers/tight ends and special teams at Navy from 1986-87.
