The Rebels have a new defensive line coach, former Alabama director of player development Freddie Roach.

“Freddie brings instant credibility to our defensive line room,” coach Hug Freeze said in a release. “His coaching skills and passion for the game make a him a great fit for our staff. As a highly successful player and coach, Freddie has been a part of championship programs, and we look forward to having his experience on our team.”

Roach joined Alabama’s staff in March 2015. Prior to that, he was defensive ends and outside linebackers coach at South Alabama. Under Roach, South Alabama pass-rushers were third nationally in sacks per game in 2013 and 21st in tackles for loss per contest, while finishing second in the Sun Belt in pass, total and scoring defense. South Alabama finished second in the conference in total defense in 2014.

At Alabama, Roach was a four-year letterman at linebacker from 2002-05, during which time he was named the National Freshman of the Year, a freshman All-American, was twice selected second team All-SEC and named to Alabama’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s. He joined the New England Patriots as a free agent in 2006. Roach returned to UA in 2008 as a strength and conditioning assistant for three seasons.

Ole Miss hired Tray Scott as defensive line coach earlier this offseason. Scott left for the same position at Georgia.