Less than two weeks since losing its defensive line coach, Alabama has its replacement. UA has hired veteran assistant coach Craig Kuligowski to serve as the Crimson Tide’s new defensive line coach, The Tuscaloosa News has learned.
SportsIllustrated.com first reported the hiring Monday evening.
Kuligowski replaces Karl Dunbar, who left Tuscaloosa to head back to the NFL as the defensive line coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kuligowski comes from Miami, where he spent two seasons in the same role. Previously he coached the position for Missouri, where he mentored and developed five first-round defensive lineman, including Shane Ray and Sheldon Richardson.
Miami released the following statement Monday: “The University of Miami announced Monday night that assistant head coach/defensive line coach Craig Kuligowski is leaving the program to pursue other opportunities. Kuligowski coached two seasons in Coral Gables after spending the previous 15 years as the defensive line coach at the University of Missouri.’’
That opportunity is at Alabama, where he reunites with with Saban for whom he played at Toledo in 1990. Kuligowski interviewed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before accepting UA’s offer.
Alabama’s defensive line returns one starter from its 2017 top-ranked defense in Raekwon Davis, although Isaiah Buggs played a significant portion of the snaps. However, there is young talent on hand in Quinnen Williams, LaBryan Ray among others.
Reach Aaron Suttles at aaron@tidesports.com or at 205-722-0229.
