The Arizona Wildcats have officially hired Marcel Yates as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, one day after announcing that the two sides had agreed in principle on a contract.
The former Boise State defensive coordinator and Texas A&M co-defensive coordinator is expected to hit the recruiting trail immediately; national signing day is Feb. 3. He replaces Jeff Casteel, who was hired earlier this month.
“I am thrilled to welcome Coach Yates into our program,” UA coach Rich Rodriguez said in a news release. “I have been impressed with the way his teams have defended, especially the last two seasons at Boise State. He has a proven track record as an outstanding recruiter and he knows how to develop players. There is no question he embodies the personality we are looking for as we strive to build the best program in America.”
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Under Yates, Boise State boasted the nation's fifth-best rushing defense, 12th-best total defense and 18th-best scoring defense in 2015. The 2015 unit ranked seventh nationally in tackles for losses and sacks. The Broncos run a three-man front on defense, like Arizona did under Casteel.
Yates will join newly hired defensive backs coach Donte Williams, who was hired Sunday, and Jahmile Addae, who was promoted to safeties coach from analyst earlier. The Wildcats still must hire a defensive line coach to replace Bill Kirelawich, who was fired along with Casteel earlier this month.
Here's a video interview with Yates courtesy of the UA:
