Drew Brees named Purdue interim assistant coach for Citrus Bowl

Drew Brees has immense love for Purdue, and he’s doing something unique to help his alma mater during a fascinating time for the Boilermakers.

As Purdue deals with a coaching change — Jeff Brohm left the Boilermakers for Louisville, and Illinois defensive coordinator Ryan Walters was hired to takeover the program — there’s still the Cirtus Bowl against LSU to be played. It’s a huge game for both the current team and for future recruits, and Brees is joining the coaching staff ahead of the showdown, per Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated.

“Drew Brees, the former NFL quarterback, is being hired as an interim assistant coach at Purdue, source tells @SInow,” tweeted Dellenger. “He wanted to help during the coaching transition.

“He’ll assist team in prep for the Citrus Bowl and coach in the game. He can also recruit via an NCAA waiver.”

The school later confirmed the news via press release. Brees doesn’t exactly have a stacked coaching resume, but the respect he’ll command from Purdue players and recruits alike is enough to make the connection a tremendous one.

Purdue has a tall task ahead of them, but Drew Brees and the rest of the remaining Boilermakers staff will be hoping to provide a memorable victory for their program against an SEC power.

Purdue to hire Illinois defensive coordinator Ryan Walters as next head coach

As previously mentioned, the Purdue Boilermakers have landed on Illinois defensive coordinator Ryan Walters as the next head football coach, replacing Jeff Brohm who is now the Louisville head coach. The team announced the move on Tuesday morning.

“I am incredibly humbled and honored to serve as the head football coach at Purdue University,” Walters wrote in the release. “I am grateful to Director of Athletics Mike Bobinski and to President Daniels for this incredible opportunity. 

“Purdue is a world-class university, and our football program will pursue the same excellence exhibited across our campus. My wife Tara and I, along with our boys, are beyond excited to join the Purdue and West Lafayette communities. Boiler Up!”

Under Walters, who is in his second season with the Fighting Illini, the defense has soared to new highs. Illinois is first nationally in scoring defense, first among Power 5 teams in total defense and first among Power 5 teams in takeaways with 29.