Notre Dame Eyes Chris Ash as New Defensive Coordinator

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Notre Dame is reportedly closing in on a replacement for defensive coordinator Al Golden, who recently accepted the same role with the Cincinnati Bengals. According to Pete Sampson of The Athletic, former Rutgers head coach and Ohio State defensive coordinator Chris Ash is a top candidate for the position.

Ash, 51, has a storied coaching career, including a stint as co-defensive coordinator at Ohio State under Urban Meyer during the Buckeyes’ 2014 national championship run. However, his tenure as head coach at Rutgers was less successful, with an 8-32 record before his dismissal. Most recently, Ash served as a scout for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Sampson’s report has sparked mixed reactions among Notre Dame fans and analysts. While Ash’s success at Ohio State is notable, his struggles at Rutgers raise questions about his fit for the Irish. Adding to the intrigue, the South Bend Tribune reports that Ash could be hired as a co-defensive coordinator alongside Mike Mickens, Notre Dame’s highly regarded defensive backs coach and defensive pass-game coordinator.

Mickens, who joined Notre Dame in 2021, has been instrumental in the team’s recruiting efforts and defensive success. A promotion to co-defensive coordinator would recognize his contributions, particularly after a standout season for his unit. Ash and Mickens share Ohio State connections, though they have never coached together. Both are also represented by the same agent, which could facilitate negotiations.

John Brice of Irish Illustrated and FootballScoop corroborated Sampson’s report, adding that discussions about Mickens’ promotion are ongoing. Ash’s potential hiring would mark a significant shift for Notre Dame’s defense, which has been a cornerstone of the team’s success under Golden.

Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman has yet to comment publicly on the reports. However, the potential pairing of Ash and Mickens suggests a strategic approach to maintaining the program’s defensive prowess while addressing leadership gaps left by Golden’s departure.