Kenechi Udeze joined the LSU staff as an analyst ahead of the 2019 season to reunite with his former USC position coach, Ed Orgeron. Now, he’s on the move for another reunion with a former coach.
Vanderbilt announced that Udeze has been hired as Derek Mason’s new linebacker coach.
“I have had nothing but the utmost respect for Kenechi Udeze as a student-athlete, professional player and a proven coach,” Mason said in the team’s announcement. “When he played for the Minnesota Vikings during my time as a defensive assistant with the organization, it was evident that he was a true student of the game. His career path and success speak for itself, and we’re excited to have him join our program.”
Udeze, 36, is a former USC defensive lineman and played in the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings until 2008 when he was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He got into coaching in 2009, starting as an assistant strength and condition coach at Washington.
Prior to joining the Commodores coaching staff, Udeze’s most recent on-field coaching job was as defensive line coach at Southern Cal from 2016-18.
Putting all the pieces of the puzzle together for 2020🔥 Blue collar players with big time talent, who want it all. The DEGREE, The CITY, The SEC💫 To get more…It takes more! It’s happening on West End. Come and get it⚓️⬇️ https://t.co/FMkYq2sGcu
— Derek Mason (@CoachDerekMason) January 21, 2020
Saturday Down South reports and comments on the news around the Southeastern Conference as well as larger college football topics.
