:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58173631/usa_today_10427771.0.jpg)
Pitt’s defense has definitely been the source of frustration for many Pitt fans the last two years. Narduzzi came to Pitt as one of the top defensive coordinators in the country, and Pitt’s play on that side of the ball has not backed up his pedigree with Josh Conklin as his defensive coordinator.
It looks like Josh Conklin will be taking a head coaching position with an FCS school per Panther Lair’s Chris Peak.
Breaking news: Josh Conklin won't be back as #Pitt's defensive coordinator in 2018 https://t.co/fPbgL8cyCU
— Chris Peak (@PantherLair) January 2, 2018
Jerry DiPaulo of the Trib is also reporting that Conklin will be the head coach at Wofford
A source has told me that Pitt DC Josh Conklin will be the next coach at Wofford College.
— Jerry DiPaola (@JDiPaola_Trib) January 2, 2018
Personally, I’m not upset by the news, or particularly pleased. Pitt’s defense has struggled, but some young talent started to blossom this season and I’m very interested to see how it develops going into next year. The defensive coordinator under Narduzzi will pretty much just run his system, so the scheme will likely not change much.
It may be a few days until we start hearing some names that could replace Conklin, but former Syracuse head coach, current Middle Tennessee State DC Scott Shafer is a good bet due to his friendship with Narduzzi. You will certainly hear about Tom Bradley as well (that doesn’t mean he’s actually a serious candidate). Narduzzi did well upgrading his defensive line coach last off season with Patridge, and with an expanded budget I’m curious to see what candidates Narduzzi can attract.