Former Florida Gators head coach Will Muschamp has agreed to a three-year deal to become Auburn’s next defensive coordinator. Reports are that he will be making between $1.6 and $1.8 million per season, making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the country,
Muschamp was one of the most sought after coaches in the country after he and Florida parted ways after four seasons. He interviewed for the University of Houston opening and there were rumors that he would become South Carolina’s next defensive coordinator but the Tigers won out in the end.
With head coach Gus Malzahn’s high-octane offense, Muschamp’s defensive prowess should provide Auburn with a spectacular one-two punch.
“I’m excited to welcome Will back to Auburn as our new defensive coordinator,” Malzahn said. “Will is a one of the top defensive minds in college football who has great passion and energy for the game. He is a tremendous addition to our staff.”
Muschamp is regardedĀ as one of the best defensive coaches in college football. Although his time in Gainesville was considered a disappointment, he has many years of experience under his belt in the SEC as a defensive coordinator. He spent four years under the guidance of Nick Saban at LSU and was an integralĀ part of the Tigers 2003 national championship. After following Saban to the NFL, Muschamp returned to the SEC and coached Auburn’s defense for two seasons before moving on to Texas.
Auburn’s defense was underwhelming in the second half of the season and was one of the main reasons the Tigers lost four games. Defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson was relieved of his duties after the Tigers’ defense underperformed for most of the 2014 campaign. With Muschamp back at the helm, the SEC has been put on notice.
Muschamp will be introduced as Auburn’s defensive coordinator later today.
*Section Photo credit to Sam Greenwood, Getty Images;Featured Photo (above) credit to Doug Benc, Getty Images.