Sources: Saints hire Cal DC Sirmon to coach LBs
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Cal defensive coordinator Peter Sirmon is leaving to become the linebackers coach of the New Orleans Saints, sources told ESPN.
Sirmon has spent the last seven years at Cal, including the last five as the defensive coordinator. He's a former NFL linebacker with the Tennessee Titans from 2000-06, and this opportunity marks his first chance to coach in the NFL.
Sirmon is a veteran college coach, who worked in the college space since 2008. He's worked as the defensive coordinator at both Louisville and Mississippi State. He's also worked at Oregon, Tennessee, Washington and USC.
Sirmon's defenses at Cal developed a reputation for forcing turnovers, as the Bears in 2023 lead the nation in fumbles recovered with 16 and tied for the nation's lead with turnovers gained with 28.
This year, Cal finished No. 14 nationally in rushing defense with 109.8 yards allowed per game.
Sirmon joins the staff of new Saints coach Kellen Moore and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.
espn