After spending 12 seasons as an assistant coach with the New England Patriots, Steve Belichick is on his way to college with a new position. Bruce Feldman reported early Monday morning that the former Patriots play-caller is expected to be named the defensive coordinator for the Washington Huskies.
Steve Belichick Headed West to Washington
Belichick has been collaborating with his dad, Bill Belichick in New England since 2012, starting as a defensive assistant. Through his time in New England, Belichick moved into various positions, first coaching safeties before overseeing the secondary and outside linebackers.
In recent years, he has also been the play-caller for the Patriots’ defense.
The move comes on the heels of a major turnover in Washington with former head coach Kalen DeBoer leaving the school for the Alabama job after Nick Saban retired. Jedd Fisch took over the Huskies football program after spending the previous three seasons with the Arizona Wildcats.
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He already made his first move at offensive coordinator bringing his offensive coordinator Brennan Carroll from Arizona to Washington.
While Belichick has not been a defensive coordinator in the past, he has been a play-caller since 2019. During his time in New England, he helped the Patriots win three Super Bowls.
Fisch and Belichick have a previous working relationship, though, as the two were on the Patriots staff together in 2020. Belichick was the play-caller on defense and Fisch was the team’s quarterback coach.
What To Expect With Belichick as Defensive Coordinator at Washington
Washington can expect Belichick to bring his 3-4 base defensive style to Washington with a focus on stopping the run.
While some may question Belichick’s lack of experience as a defensive coordinator, the Patriots were seventh in the NFL in total defense (301.6) despite the team going 4-13 in the regular season a year ago.
The Huskies have a defensive coordinator who has kept his defenses successful, learning from one of the greatest coaches of all time throughout his life.
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