Hugh Freeze, Auburn Include Two Defensive Coaches, One of Who Was a Former Super Bowl Champion
Auburn University’s football program, under the leadership of head coach Hugh Freeze, has recently strengthened its defensive coaching staff with the addition of two seasoned professionals: T.J. Rushing and Roc Bellantoni. These strategic hires aim to enhance the Tigers’ defensive performance in the upcoming 2025 season.
T.J. Rushing: From Super Bowl Champion to Safeties Coach
T.J. Rushing, a former NFL player and Super Bowl XLI champion with the Indianapolis Colts, brings a wealth of experience to Auburn’s coaching staff. During his playing career, Rushing was known for his versatility as a cornerback and return specialist. Transitioning into coaching, he has accumulated over a decade of experience at the collegiate level, with previous positions at institutions such as Arizona State, Memphis, and Texas A&M. In June 2024, Rushing joined Auburn as a special assistant to the head coach, and his recent promotion to safeties coach reflects his valuable contributions and the trust placed in him by the program. citeturn0search1
Roc Bellantoni: Returning to the Plains
Roc Bellantoni rejoins Auburn’s coaching staff as the outside linebackers coach. With a coaching career spanning over three decades, Bellantoni previously served as Auburn’s edge rushers coach and special teams coordinator during the 2022 season. After a stint as the defensive coordinator at Florida Atlantic University, he returns to Auburn, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in developing defensive talent. citeturn0search1
Strategic Impact on Auburn’s Defense
The appointments of Rushing and Bellantoni are strategic moves designed to bolster Auburn’s defensive capabilities. Rushing’s experience as a defensive backs coach is expected to enhance the performance of the safeties, contributing to a more robust pass defense. Bellantoni’s expertise with linebackers and edge rushers is anticipated to improve Auburn’s pass rush and run-stopping abilities, adding depth and versatility to the defensive front.
Completing the Coaching Staff
With these hires, Coach Hugh Freeze has finalized his coaching staff for the 2025 season. The staff now includes:
- Quarterbacks Coach: Kent Austin
- Offensive Coordinator/Running Backs Coach: Derrick Nix
- Wide Receivers Coach: Marcus Davis
- Tight Ends Coach: Ben Aigamaua
- Offensive Line Coach: Jake Thornton
- Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers Coach: D.J. Durkin
- Defensive Line Coach: Vontrell King-Williams
- Defensive Edge Coach: Roc Bellantoni
- Cornerbacks Coach: Wesley McGriff
- Safeties Coach: T.J. Rushing
This comprehensive coaching lineup reflects a blend of experience and expertise, positioning Auburn for a competitive season ahead. citeturn0search1
Looking Forward
As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, the integration of Rushing and Bellantoni into the coaching staff is expected to have a significant impact on the team’s defensive strategies and overall performance. Their combined experience and fresh perspectives are anticipated to contribute to Auburn’s pursuit of excellence in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
