The coaching staff shakeup at Notre Dame may not be over just yet.
Despite head coach Marcus Freeman seemingly stabilizing the team after recent departures, reports now suggest the Irish could soon be searching for a new defensive backs coach. Mike Mickens, widely regarded as one of the best in his field, is reportedly a prime candidate for the same position at the University of Texas. The report, first circulated by Orange Bloods, a Texas On3 site, has gained traction, fueling speculation that Mickens could be heading to Austin.
The potential move makes sense, given that Mickens was passed over for Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator job in favor of Chris Ash. Initially, there was talk of Mickens sharing co-DC duties with Ash, but that never materialized. Now, after years of being overlooked for top roles, Mickens may be ready to move on.
According to Orange Bloods reporter Anwar Richardson, Mickens is one of the top three candidates for Texas’ defensive backs coach position. If offered, it seems likely he would accept.
Mike Mickens
This situation highlights a growing challenge for Notre Dame. While Freeman has publicly praised Mickens and believes he will be a defensive coordinator in the future, he wasn’t prepared to entrust him with that responsibility at Notre Dame. Frustrated by being passed over, Mickens has been sought after by multiple programs, even interviewing for Cincinnati’s DC position last year.
Now, Notre Dame finds itself hoping that Mickens either chooses to stay or that Texas ultimately decides to go in a different direction.
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