The Las Vegas Raiders are making waves in the coaching world by hiring Deland McCullough, the talented running backs coach from Notre Dame, to join Pete Carroll’s staff. This move is particularly exciting for fans and players alike, as McCullough has proven himself to be a key figure in developing young talent, most notably Jeremiyah Love, during his time with the Fighting Irish.
McCullough’s Impact at Notre Dame
During his tenure at Notre Dame, McCullough made significant contributions as part of Marcus Freeman’s coaching staff. He began in 2022 and quickly rose to the position of assistant head coach. His expertise was instrumental in the growth of both Love and Audric Estime, showcasing his ability to nurture and enhance the skills of his players. Under his guidance, Love had an impressive sophomore season, rushing for 1,125 yards and scoring 17 touchdowns, even while battling a knee injury late in the year and through the College Football Playoff.
What makes McCullough’s achievements even more remarkable is how he navigated the challenges of coaching at such a high level. He played a vital role in shaping a formidable Notre Dame backfield, and his departure marks a significant loss for the program.
A Journey Through Coaching
Before his arrival at Notre Dame, McCullough honed his skills as the running backs coach at Indiana in 2021. His coaching journey began in 2010 as an intern at his alma mater, Miami (OH), after going undrafted in the 1996 NFL Draft. He briefly played for the Cincinnati Bengals and spent time on the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad.
His first significant coaching role came in 2011 when he became Indiana’s running backs coach, a position he held until 2017. After a stint at USC, he returned to Indiana before making the leap to the NFL with the Kansas City Chiefs. There, he worked with stars like Kareem Hunt and Clyde Edwards-Helaire, gaining invaluable experience that he brought back to college football.
Notre Dame’s Coaching Changes
McCullough’s departure is part of a larger trend at Notre Dame, where the coaching staff has seen several notable changes following their run to the national championship game. Defensive coordinator Al Golden also left to take the same role with the Cincinnati Bengals. In response, Freeman quickly moved to hire former Rutgers head coach Chris Ash to fill the void left by Golden.
Freeman expressed his enthusiasm for Ash, stating, “Chris’ experience of coordinating and leading great defensive units at multiple places really resonated with me. His experience both in the NFL and as a head coach are valuable assets he can bring to our program.” This shows the urgency and commitment to maintaining a strong coaching staff as the Fighting Irish look to build on their recent success.
Looking Ahead: McCullough’s Role with the Raiders
As McCullough prepares to transition back to the NFL with the Raiders, fans are eager to see how his coaching style will translate at the professional level. His track record of developing young talent is impressive, and his experience in the NFL will undoubtedly be an asset.
The Raiders are looking to bolster their running game, and McCullough’s insights and strategies could be just what they need. With a history of working with talented players, there’s a sense of optimism surrounding his hiring. Will he be able to replicate his success with Notre Dame in the fast-paced world of the NFL? Only time will tell, but the potential is certainly there.
The Future of College Football Coaching
McCullough’s move to the Raiders highlights a broader trend in college football coaching. As programs strive for excellence, the competition for top-tier coaches is fierce. Coaches are not only evaluated on their ability to win games but also on their capacity to develop players into NFL-ready talent.
This shift emphasizes the importance of strong coaching relationships and the need for programs to adapt quickly to changes. As schools like Notre Dame make strategic hires and adjustments, it raises the question: how will these changes impact the landscape of college football in the coming years?
In summary, Deland McCullough’s journey from Notre Dame to the NFL is a testament to his skills as a coach and his ability to nurture talent. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Las Vegas Raiders, the college football community will be watching closely, eager to see how his impact unfolds in the professional arena. The excitement is palpable, and one can’t help but wonder what the future holds for both McCullough and the teams he leaves behind.
