As expected, new Lions coach Jim Caldwell has tabbed a former Ravens colleague to run Detroit’s defense.
The Lions are hiring Ravens secondary coach Teryl Austin as their defensive coordinator, Tim Twentyman of DetroitLions.com reported Friday.
Austin, 48, coached the Ravens’ secondary from 2011 through 2013. He also coached the Cardinals’ defensive backs (2003-2006) and the Cardinals’ defensive backs (2007-2009).
The Lions have also reportedly added a former NFL defensive coordinator as their linebackers coach. According to Twentyman, the Lions have hired Bill Sheridan, most recently the Buccaneers’ defensive boss, to work with the club’s linebackers.
In addition, Twentyman reports the Lions are keeping the following assistants: John Bonamego (special teams coordinator), Terry Heffernan (assistant offensive line), Kris Kocurek (assistant defensive line), Bobby Johnson (tight ends), Curtis Modkins (running backs/running game coordinator) and Jim Washburn (assistant defensive line/pass rush specialist). The titles listed for the coaches are from the Lions’ website, but it’s unclear whether any responsibilities will change with Caldwell now the head coach.