Former Maryland coach D.J. Durkin landed his first full-time coaching job Thursday as Ole Miss announced the 41-year-old’s hiring as an assistant coach under Lane Kiffin.
Durkin was fired without cause from Maryland in 2018 after an investigation into program’s culture following the death of Jordan McNair, the former offensive lineman who died of heatstroke.
Durkin was placed on leave on Aug. 11 from Maryland after McNair’s death in June, and was initially reinstated by the board of regents — but was then fired by school president Wallace Loh in the wake of intense criticism.
Ole Miss athletic director Keith Carter defended the decision in a statement.
“We received consistently strong feedback about Coach Durkin’s strong character and work ethic and his positive impact on the communities and institutions where he was previously employed,” Carter said. “Once we had the chance to spend time with Coach Durkin, we were even more convinced that he is exactly the type of accomplished coach with strong football credentials who is also a proud and committed family man that will make him a great addition to our new staff.”
Before Ole Miss, Durkin had been a guest assistant under Atlanta Falcons coach Dan Quinn during training camp.
Durkin spent two-plus seasons at Maryland, going 10-15 as coach. He is also a longtime defensive coach, serving as the defensive coordinator at Michigan and Florida.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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