During the college football offseason, coaching changes continue to make headlines, and Texas is currently in the midst of an important hiring process. The Longhorns have lost safeties coach Blake Gideon to Georgia Tech, where he will take on the role of defensive coordinator. Although Georgia Tech may not be as high-profile as Texas, this move represents a significant career step for Gideon.
His departure leaves a key vacancy on Steve Sarkisian’s staff, and Texas is now focused on finding the right replacement. Instead of promoting an up-and-coming coach, Sarkisian appears to be targeting an experienced NFL coach looking to rebuild his reputation. Reports indicate that Texas is considering a coach who was recently the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons.
A discussion on the Orangebloods YouTube channel, led by hosts Alex Dunlap and Cody Carpentier, revealed a shortlist of four candidates for the safeties coach position. According to reporter Anwar Richardson, Texas is primarily considering:
Not my style, but here it goes. Most exciting and most difficult week of my career. Too many people to thank. Sark, PK, TJ, you’re the best. My guys in the Room…I love you, keep setting your alarm, keep stepping into the ring, keep the standard.
— Blake Gideon (@Coach_Gideon) February 7, 2025
Duane Akina (Arizona defensive backs coach)
Cory Sanders (Pittsburgh assistant coach for the secondary)
Mike Mickens (Notre Dame defensive backs coach)
Jimmy Lake (Former Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator)
Of the four, Lake has garnered the most attention. At 48, he has extensive experience across both the college and NFL levels, having worked as a defensive backs coach, assistant coach, and defensive coordinator for multiple NFL franchises. He also served as head coach at Washington for several years. Despite a challenging season with the Falcons, his credentials remain strong, making him a prime candidate to lead Texas’ secondary.
Dunlap and Carpentier debated the ideal choice, with Carpentier ranking Lake as his top option, followed by Akina and Mickens. Dunlap, however, initially leaned toward Mickens, impressed by his success with Notre Dame’s defense, which ranked second in the nation against the pass. Still, concerns about Mickens’ coaching history in regions outside Texas’ recruiting footprint led Dunlap to reconsider, ultimately agreeing that Lake and Akina were the best fits.
Sarkisian is reportedly eager to finalize the hire by the weekend, ensuring continuity for a Texas defense that ranked third in pass defense last season. With the Longhorns entering their second year in the SEC, maintaining defensive strength is crucial as they aim for another conference championship appearance. A final decision on the safeties coach position is expected soon.