Report: Defensive line coach Mike Elston is leaving Notre Dame

Notre Dame defensive line coach Mike Elston is leaving to accept the same role at Michigan, according to multiple reports.

The news was first reported by 247Sports’ Tom Loy. Elston is a Michigan alum who played for the Wolverines from 1993-96.

Elston arrived in South Bend in 2010 along with Brian Kelly and has been a mainstay on Notre Dame’s defensive staff ever since. He’s served in a variety of roles, including linebackers coach and recruiting coordinator.

This is a major surprise, as Elston previously said he was committed to Notre Dame. He coordinated the Fighting Irish’s defense during their Fiesta Bowl loss to Oklahoma State earlier this month.

According to The Athletic’s Pete Sampson, Elston has already informed Notre Dame recruits that he is heading to Michigan.

Talked to the family of one of Notre Dame’s defensive line commitments. The Elston departure is a shock and Elston has already called to tell the family that he’s headed to Michigan.

— Pete Sampson (@PeteSampson_) January 13, 2022

Notre Dame is currently looking for a new defensive coordinator. According to reports, Iowa State defensive coordinator John Heacock is the leading candidate for that role. Coach Marcus Freeman is also looking to hire a new receivers coach after parting ways with Del Alexander earlier this month.

Notre Dame currently has two defensive line commitments in the class of 2023 — 5-star EDGE Keon Keely and 4-star defensive end Brenan Vernon.