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Notre Dame Announces New Defensive Coaching Hires
Irish add Illinois coordinator and Michigan assistant to defensive staff
Feb. 8, 2026 at 6:31am
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Notre Dame football has officially announced the hiring of two new defensive position coaches. Aaron Henry will take over the defensive backs and serve as co-defensive coordinator, while Brian Jean-Mary will lead the linebackers and run game coordinator. Both coaches bring impressive resumes and experience that could pay dividends for the Irish as they look to build on recent success.
Why it matters
The additions of Henry and Jean-Mary further strengthen Notre Dame's coaching staff, which head coach Marcus Freeman has assembled with an eye towards competing for College Football Playoff berths. Assembling a top-tier coaching staff is crucial for elite programs, and these hires demonstrate Notre Dame's commitment to putting the best possible team on the field.
The details
Aaron Henry comes to Notre Dame after two seasons as the defensive coordinator at Illinois, while Brian Jean-Mary brings over 25 years of coaching experience, including a recent stint at Michigan. Henry will take over the defensive backs and serve as co-defensive coordinator, while Jean-Mary will lead the linebackers and run game coordinator roles.
- The coaching hires were officially announced on February 8, 2026.
The players
Aaron Henry
The new Notre Dame defensive backs coach and co-defensive coordinator, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Illinois.
Brian Jean-Mary
The new Notre Dame linebackers coach and run game coordinator, who brings over 25 years of coaching experience, including a recent stint at Michigan.
Marcus Freeman
The head coach of the Notre Dame football team, who has assembled an impressive coaching staff as the program looks to compete for College Football Playoff berths.
What’s next
The new defensive coaches will look to quickly integrate into the program and work with the returning players to build on Notre Dame's recent success.
The takeaway
Notre Dame has made a concerted effort to assemble an elite coaching staff, bringing in experienced and accomplished defensive coordinators in Aaron Henry and Brian Jean-Mary. These hires demonstrate the program's commitment to competing at the highest level and positioning the team for long-term success.
