Multiple reports are now confirming that Texas Longhorns defensive backs coach Duane Akina is leaving Austin and heading west, to the same position on Mike Stoops staff at the University of Arizona, the school where Akina was once defensive coordinator. Akina has been coaching defensive backs at Texas since 2000 after serving as defensive coordinator with Dick Tomey at Arizona.
Akina's departure opens up yet another spot on a Texas coaching staff that has almost entirely turned over this past offseason. Akina's remaining on the staff was critical in helping to stabilize the 2011 recuiting class, and his departure now raises questions about a number of kids who were coming to play under the coach who sent guys like Earl Thomas, Aaron Ross, and Michael Griffin to the NFL, among others.
We'll start posting information about possible replacement candidates as names begin to emerge.
The coaching carousel continues to turn, turn, turn...