Clark Lea has officially hired his first defensive coordinator as head coach of Vanderbilt.

It was previously reported that Baltimore Ravens defensive backs coach Jesse Minter was headed to Nashville but the news was not made official until Thursday.

Minter arrives after four seasons with the Ravens, each season working as the team’s defensive backs coach. During his time with the Ravens, Minter’s unit produced several Pro Bowl players.

In addition to his NFL experience, Minter has previously worked as a defensive coordinator at Georgia State and Indiana State.

Following Minter’s hire, Lea issued the following statement on the news.

“Jesse played a crucial role for one of the NFL’s best defenses. I am excited for him to bring his knowledge & experience to VU to field a tough, swarming defense. It has been evident that Jesse has the passion & energy for the job & I am happy to welcome his family to Vanderbilt!”

Minter wasn’t the only hire officially announced by Vanderbilt on Thursday as the Commodores have announced Ben Cauthen as the program’s new chief of staff. Cauthen previously worked at Wake Forest where he served as the video coordinator for the Demon Decon football program.

Vanderbilt’s 2021 coaching staff

  • David Raih – Offensive coordinator (not yet confirmed)
  • Jesse Minter – Defensive coordinator
  • Justin Lustig – Special Teams Coordinator/Tight ends
  • Inoke Breckterfield – Defensive line
  • Norval McKenzie – Running backs
  • Jovan Haye – Defensive ends