Reports: Oregon DL Coach Azzinaro To Join Eagles

Chip Kelly has not officially named any new members to his coaching staff.

But according to multiple reports (one by Jen Beyrle of Comcast SportsNet Northwest and another by Bruce Feldman of CBSSports.com), Kelly is expected to bring Oregon defensive line coach Jerry Azzinaro with him.

Azzinaro, 54, spent four years as the Ducks’ defensive line coach. He has no NFL experience, but has been all over the place in the college ranks. Here’s the rundown:

Marshall (DL coach, 2008)
New Hampshire (DL coach, 2007)
Duke (Defensive coordinator, 2004-2006)
Syracuse (DL coach/recruiting coordinator, 1999-2003)
Maine (DL coach, 1998)
Boston College (DL coach, 1995-1996)
UMass (Defensive coordinator, 1994, 1997)
UMass (LBs coach/recruiting coordinator, 1992-1993)
American International College (Defensive coordinator, 1987-1991)
Western New England College (Head coach, 1986)

Azzinaro’s most well-known pupil is probably Dwight Freeney, from his time at Syracuse.

The Eagles had a Jim Washburn/Tommy Brasher combo at defensive line coach last year. A year after tying for the league lead in sacks, the Birds finished tied for 25th in 2012.

Below is a YouTube video of Azzinaro mic’d up. Thanks to Bo Wulf of PhiladelphiaEagles.com for the link.

Follow Sheil Kapadia on Twitter and e-mail him at skapadia@phillymag.com.
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