BREAKING NEWS: Chuck Cecil has been named the University of Arizona’s Senior Defensive Assistant, Offense

University of Arizona Head Football Coach Brent Brennan has introduced Chuck Cecil as the team’s new senior defensive assistant, adding a wealth of experience from both the NFL and college football ranks to the Wildcats’ coaching staff. Cecil assumes his position promptly and will work closely with Coach Brennan in overseeing defensive operations for the team.

“In today’s college football model, with the demands of recruiting and NIL, we need a position that would increase communication, competitive advantages, and functionality,” stated Brennan. “The senior defensive assistant, offense, position modernizes our traditional coaching hierarchy – without adding personnel count – and there is no better coach to fill that role than Chuck Cecil.”

In his new role, Cecil will give the offensive coordinator and head coach of the Wildcats in-depth research and statistics on the defenses of their opponents. The purpose of the position is to determine and provide competitive and schematic benefits for personnel, play-calling, and strategies. Having worked with quarterbacks coach Mike Glennon, Jared Goff, and the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, Cecil is no stranger to the role.

“A big thank you to Coach Brennan for the opportunity to stay at Arizona in this new role,” stated Cecil. “Coaching the Wildcats, and being a part of the football program, continues to be a blessing for me and my family. My wife, daughter and I have made Tucson my home and staying with the Wildcats is ideally how I would like to end my coaching career – but not anytime soon.”

Brennan added, “Chuck has done an incredible job recruiting and coaching the defensive backs for the past three years in Tucson, and it is hard to find another person who cares more about the Wildcats than him. He brings invaluable football knowledge from both the professional and collegiate coach and player perspectives, and we are excited to keep him home with the Wildcats in this new role.”

Chuck Cecil stands out as one of the NFL’s rare senior defensive assistants with a unique focus on offense. With two decades of coaching experience at both NFL and collegiate levels, Cecil has made significant contributions to the University of Arizona football program over the past three years, particularly in his role coaching safeties.

Under Cecil’s guidance, the safety unit has undergone a remarkable transformation, evidenced by four safeties achieving career-high grades from Pro Football Focus (PFF) in the previous season alone. Over this period, his safeties have surpassed previous personal bests in forced fumbles, solo tackles, and sacks, while also enhancing the team’s overall defense against the run. In 2023, two starting safeties achieved career highs in tackles and interceptions, contributing to the team’s lowest points per game allowed since 2013. Notably, both of Arizona’s starting safeties ranked in the top five in total tackles on the team, underscoring Cecil’s impact on player development and defensive performance.

With a wealth of NFL coaching experience, including stints as a defensive coordinator and elite secondary coach, Cecil returned to his alma mater in 2017 and has since played diverse roles within the coaching staff. Notably, he served as a senior defensive assistant for the Los Angeles Rams, where he provided specialized defensive assistance to offensive position coaches, coordinators, and the head coach. His tenure with the St. Louis Rams saw notable improvements in defensive rankings, showcasing his ability to elevate defensive units and mentor young players.

During his time as the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, Cecil crafted a formidable defense known for its stout run defense and aggressive pass rush. His emphasis on fundamentals and player development yielded impressive results, with the Titans consistently ranking among the league’s top teams in interceptions and scoring defense.

Cecil’s expertise as a secondary coach has been particularly noteworthy, with his defensive back units garnering accolades and producing Pro Bowl-caliber talent. His ability to cultivate talent and instill a winning mentality within his players has earned him widespread recognition as one of the premier defensive minds in football.