Notre Dame officially announced the hiring of new defensive coordinator Al Golden on Wednesday.

Golden most recently was the linebackers coach for the Cincinnati Bengals. He also has experience at the collegiate level, serving as a head coach at Miami (2011-15) and Temple (2006-10).

“Al’s defensive background and knowledge of this profession makes him a valuable asset to our program,” head coach Marcus Freeman said in a release. “He is known for getting the absolute best out of his players both on and off the field. Additionally, he will be a great resource for me and others on our staff with his previous experience as a head coach. I am thrilled that he has joined our staff at Notre Dame.”

Golden will also coach Notre Dame’s linebackers.

Golden adds an element of head coaching experience that this Notre Dame staff is lacking. He replaces Freeman in this role, who was elevated to head coach after Brian Kelly took the LSU job back in December.

With Freeman expected to handle most of the recruiting responsibilities for Notre Dame on defense, it makes sense to bring in an experienced coach like Golden to assist with the transition.

Notre Dame’s spring game is on April 23.