Jaguars hire Packers' Anthony Campanile as defensive coordinator
Shreeaa Rathi | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Jan 31, 2025, 21:49 IST
( Image credit : AP )
The Jacksonville Jaguars have hired Anthony Campanile, former Packers linebackers coach, as their new defensive coordinator. Head coach Liam Coen praised Campanile's aggressive defensive mindset and adaptability. With experience from stints with the Dolphins and Packers, Campanile is expected to significantly strengthen Jacksonville's defense, aiming to turn around their inconsistent performance from last season.
"Anthony Campanile represents exactly what we want to be as a defensive unit and football team," Coen stated on Thursday. "He brings an aggressive defensive mindset and a system that is adaptable to our players and allows them to play fast and physical."
Campanile’s appointment follows an extensive search that included interviews with several high-profile candidates, including Las Vegas Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, Minnesota Vikings pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach Daronte Jones, and Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator and assistant head coach Aubrey Pleasant.
A Proven Defensive Mind
His impact was also evident in Miami, where the Dolphins' defense ranked among the best in stopping the run during his tenure. From 2020 to 2023, Miami allowed an average of 4.2 yards per carry, ranking 10th in the NFL, and just 106.4 rushing yards per game, the sixth-best mark over that span.
A Journey Through Coaching Ranks
He further honed his coaching expertise at Boston College from 2016 to 2018 before a brief tenure at Michigan. His move to the NFL came in 2020 when he joined Brian Flores’ staff in Miami.
What This Means for the Jaguars
As the Jaguars continue their offseason preparations, all eyes will be on how Campanile molds his defensive scheme to fit the team's roster. If his past success is any indication, Jacksonville’s defense could take a significant step forward in the upcoming season.