In a significant shift within the Texas Longhorns’ football coaching staff, defensive backs coach Terry Joseph has departed to join the New Orleans Saints as their defensive passing game coordinator. To fill the void, the Longhorns have rehired veteran coach Duane Akina, bringing back a familiar face to the program.Houston Chronicle+1Wikipedia+1Houston Chronicle+1Houston Chronicle+2Sports Illustrated+2The Daily Texan+2
Terry Joseph’s Tenure at Texas
Terry Joseph joined the University of Texas coaching staff in January 2021 as the defensive passing game coordinator and secondary coach. Over his four-year tenure, Joseph played a pivotal role in enhancing the Longhorns’ defensive backfield. Under his guidance, the 2023 season saw the team amass 16 interceptions, ranking them tenth nationally in this category. Standout cornerback Jahdae Barron earned Second-Team All-Big 12 honors and was a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award during this period. Additionally, defensive back Ryan Watts was selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers after starting 22 games and earning the 2022 Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year award.Football Scoop+2Wikipedia+2College Football Network+2
Before his stint at Texas, Joseph contributed to the defensive units of several prominent programs. At Notre Dame, he coached safety Kyle Hamilton, a multiple-time First-Team All-American and a finalist for the Bednarik Award, who was subsequently selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Joseph’s prior coaching experiences also include roles at Nebraska, Tennessee, and Louisiana Tech, where he consistently developed talent in the secondary positions.Houston Chronicle+2Texas Longhorns+2Houston Chronicle+2College Football Network+1Wikipedia+1College Football Network+1
Transition to the NFL
In February 2025, Joseph accepted the position of defensive passing game coordinator with the New Orleans Saints. This move marks his inaugural foray into NFL coaching, a testament to his growing reputation in defensive strategy and player development. Joseph’s deep roots in Louisiana—having coached at LSU and Louisiana Tech, and his early coaching career at Archbishop Shaw High School in New Orleans—make this transition a homecoming of sorts.Houston Chronicle+1Wikipedia+1Houston Chronicle+1
The Return of Duane Akina
To address the vacancy left by Joseph, the Longhorns have turned to a seasoned and familiar coach: Duane Akina. Akina’s history with Texas spans over a decade, having served as the defensive backs coach from 2001 to 2013 under former head coach Mack Brown. During his previous tenure, Akina was instrumental in developing a formidable secondary, earning the moniker “Defensive Back University” for Texas. His coaching prowess produced several NFL talents, including notable names like Michael Huff, Aaron Ross, and Earl Thomas.Houston Chronicle+2The Daily Texan+2Sports Illustrated+2
After his initial period at Texas, Akina continued to impart his defensive expertise at Stanford University and, more recently, at the University of Arizona. His return to Austin is met with enthusiasm, as his extensive experience and prior success with the Longhorns are expected to seamlessly integrate into the current coaching framework.
Implications for the Longhorns’ Defense
The coaching transition occurs at a pivotal moment for the Longhorns. The 2024 season showcased a robust defensive performance, with Texas ranking second nationally in points allowed and leading the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in takeaways. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski’s holistic and collaborative approach has been a cornerstone of this success. Integrating Akina’s wealth of experience is anticipated to further bolster the defensive unit, particularly the secondary.Football Scoop+2Houston Chronicle+2Texas Longhorns+2
Akina’s coaching philosophy emphasizes aggressive play and keen ball awareness, traits that align with Kwiatkowski’s defensive schemes. His ability to mentor and develop defensive backs is expected to enhance the skill set of current players and attract prospective talent, reinforcing Texas’s reputation for producing elite defensive backs.
Broader Coaching Staff Dynamics
Terry Joseph’s departure is part of a series of offseason changes within the Longhorns’ coaching staff. Running backs coach Tashard Choice accepted a position with the Detroit Lions, and safeties coach Blake Gideon transitioned to a defensive coordinator role at Georgia Tech. These movements have prompted head coach Steve Sarkisian to make strategic hires and promotions, resulting in ten new additions or advancements within the staff this offseason.Texas Longhorns+1Houston Chronicle+1Texas Longhorns+1
Despite these changes, the core leadership remains steadfast. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski continues to helm the defense, bringing a calm and collaborative demeanor that has been instrumental in the team’s recent successes. His balanced approach fosters strong relationships with both players and fellow coaches, creating a cohesive environment conducive to high performance.
Looking Ahead
As the Longhorns prepare for the upcoming season, the integration of Duane Akina back into the coaching staff is poised to strengthen an already formidable defense. His return not only brings a wealth of knowledge and experience but also rekindles a legacy of defensive excellence at Texas. The synergy between Akina’s coaching style and Kwiatkowski’s defensive strategies holds promise for the Longhorns as they aim to build upon their recent achievements and pursue championship aspirations.
In conclusion, while transitions within coaching staffs can present challenges, the Texas Longhorns have adeptly navigated these changes by bringing back a proven and respected coach in Duane Akina. His return signifies a commitment to maintaining and elevating the defensive standards that have become synonymous with Texas football.