Alabama officially announces Maurice Linguist, Colin Hitschler as co-DCs, defensive backs coach

The coaching staff is still coming along for Kalen DeBoer at Alabama. On Monday, another positive step was taken by adding two key defensive coaches. Maurice Linguist and Colin Hitschler‘s hires were announced by the Crimson Tide on Monday, with both serving as co-defensive coordinators and defensive back coaches.

“We are excited to have Maurice and Colin join our staff at Alabama,” DeBoer said in a statement. “Maurice brings both head coaching experience and an established record of success coaching defensive backs. Colin boasts a wealth of knowledge and experience, has a reputation for developing the skill sets of the players he coaches and is an excellent tactician. They are both proven recruiters and outstanding teachers.”

Hitschler is making the move to Alabama from Big Ten country, previously working with Wisconsin. He was a part of Luke Fickell‘s first season in Madison. Fickell has had Hitschler on staff for quite some time, going back to the 2018 season at Cincinnati.

Safties have been Hitschler’s area of expertise throughout the years. It’s expected to continue in Tuscaloosa.

“I have worked in this state, and I understand the importance of Alabama football and its winning tradition,” Hitschler said. “I am excited to have the chance to continue to uphold the Alabama standard while helping the young men in this program to become the best versions of themselves.”

Alabama snags active head coach to be co-DC, DB coach

One impressive thing about DeBoer’s reported staff has been the ability to acquire active head coaches and get them back into the assistant ranks. Linguist is one of those, previously being at Buffalo.

He will now work aside Hitschler and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack — who was previously the head coach at South Alabama before accepting the Alabama job.

“I have always had an incredible admiration for Alabama’s long history of success,” Linguist said. “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to help Coach DeBoer continue that winning tradition, while developing our players both on and off the field.”

Linguist spent three seasons at Buffalo, sporting a 14-23 career record. His best year came in 2022 when the Bulls finished with a winning record and won the Camellia Bowl.

Alongside his co-DC duties, Linguist is expected to coach cornerbacks for Alabama. And after losing two first-round quality players at the position, there will be some competition for playing time ahead of the 2024 season. Linguist will have decisions to make during his first year in charge.