Building a successful college football program requires more than just hiring a head coach; it involves assembling a strong support staff. From coordinators to game day personnel, every role plays a crucial part in shaping a winning culture.
This is precisely what Luke Fickell aims to achieve at Wisconsin. To aid in this effort, Fickell has enlisted the help of seasoned NFL coach Jack Del Rio as an advisor. According to Bruce Feldman of The Athletic, Del Rio will offer his expertise on both offense and defense, as well as provide guidance on personnel matters and serve as a sounding board for Fickell.
Del Rio, who was dismissed from his position as defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders in November 2023, brings a wealth of football experience to his new role. A standout college player at USC, where he earned consensus All-American honors as a linebacker in 1984, Del Rio was drafted in the third round of the 1985 NFL Draft and enjoyed an 11-year career as a player before transitioning to coaching.
His extensive NFL background includes serving as head coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2003 to 2011 and the Oakland Raiders from 2015 to 2017. With a coaching career that spans from 1997 onward, Del Rio is well-equipped to contribute valuable insights to a Wisconsin team facing a challenging schedule this season.
