Auburn football: Bryan Harsin hires Nick Eason as DL coach

After a rocky start, Auburn football head coach Bryan Harsin has finally completed his coaching staff after naming NFL coaching vet Nick Eason as defensive line coach.

Of course, this is the second time HC Bryan Harsin thought he was finished hiring his staff–the first included Tracy Rocker getting the nod as DL coach. This past Wednesday Harsin confirmed Rocker would be leaving the program and moving on to the NFL, seemingly nodding his head in the other direction in Rocker-esque fashion.

AL.com reported Harsin’s comments on Rocker:

"“He took an opportunity in the NFL. We’ll find the right person to come in here and coach D-line.”"

And found the right person he (seemingly) has.

Nick Eason previously coached the defensive line of the Cincinnati Bengals in the NFL but has only one year of college coaching experience at Austin Peay State University.

Prior to his stint at Austin Peay, Eason coached for the Tennessee Titans from 2014-2017. Before his coaching career began, Eason played 10 season in the NFL. Between the Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Arizona Cardinals, he played 110 games and went to two Super Bowls.

The Auburn Plainsman reported Bryan Harsin’s perspective on the new hire.

"“After a 10-year NFL career, he moved right into coaching and quickly became an NFL position coach within two years. That’s something that doesn’t happen every day and speaks volumes for his coaching and connection ability."

Harsin went on to praise Eason’s teaching ability, which is good news for the Auburn football program, which will be welcoming many freshmen to the defense in 2021.

The Eason/Rocker trade between the Tigers and the NFL is looking good for the University’s prospects moving forward, with Eason being far less of a flight risk.

War Eagle to that!