Report: Notre Dame closing in on defensive coordinator hire

Notre Dame is expected to pursue Iowa State defensive coordinator Jon Heacock for its’ open DC role, according to a report.

That’s per FootballScoop.com’s John Brice, who reports that Heacock took a visit to South Bend earlier this week. The visit apparently went enough that Heacock is n

ow Notre Dame’s “priority target” for the job.

Heacock has spent the last six seasons at Iowa State. He’s presided over arguably the best era of football in that program’s history, culminating with an appearance in the 2019 Big 12 Championship Game.

Iowa State has made it to five straight bowl games, thanks in large part to its success on the defensive end of the floor. The Cyclones have been in the top three in the Big 12 in yards per play allowed in three of the last five seasons.

Previously, Heacock spent time at Y

oungstown State, Purdue, Toledo and Kent State, amongst other programs. He was the head coach at Youngstown State from 2001-09.

Heacock also has previous experience working with Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman. They both served on Purdue’s staff in 2013 — Heacock was the defensive backs coach and Freeman was the linebackers’ coach.

Heacock would seemingly be a perfect fit for Notre Dame. He has proven experience as a play caller, and Freeman’s impact on the recruiting trail will help offset any potential concerns about Heacock in that area.

Notre Dame has not officially announced the hire.