PASADENA, Calif. (WDRB) -- After its best defensive season in recent memory, the Louisville football program may be losing its defensive coordinator and defensive line coach, according to a report on ESPN.
Defensive coordinator Ron English, who came with Brohm from Purdue in 2023, has asked to step away from his role for one season to watch his son play a final season of college football at Navy, according to reports. The news was first reported by Pete Thamel at ESPN.
The terms and duration of his leave weren't reported. A source close to the program confirmed the report.
English has led the Cardinals defense the past three seasons. This past year, Louisville ranked No. 17 in total defense.
Upon arriving, English's defense played a key role guiding the Cardinals to the ACC title game. Under his guidance, the Cardinals held six opponents to less than 14 points and posted a pair of shutouts, including a shutout win over No. 20 Duke.
Louisville ranked 10th nationally against the run that season.
ESPN also reported defensive line coach Mark Hagan, who has led stalwart lines at Louisville in his three seasons, won't return.
Hagan was a key in the development of defensive end Ashton Gillette, now with the Kansas City Chiefs. He led a line this year that was the backbone of Louisville's defense, led by All-ACC performer Clev Lubin.
Several key components, including ends Wes Bailey and Micah Carter, have been reported to be considering the transfer portal in recent days.
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