The Eagles have named Sean McDermott the team's defensive coordinator and will have a news conference tomorrow to officially announce it.
McDermott has taken over the Eagles defense in place of long-time defensive coordinator Jim Johnson.
He's 35 years old and has worked his way up through the Eagles organization and takes over as the top defensive coach after mentoring the linebackers and the secondary.
The young coach has been with the Eagles for 11 years. He knows Johnson's system and is expected to put his stamp on what was the third best defense in the NFL a year ago.
Johnson is battling cancer and currently undergoing chemotherapy treatments. I have been told by a source that the Eagles don't expect him to return in the near future.
They're rooting for him to win his battle but understandably they want to be prepared for the football season at the same time.
Here's what head coach Andy Reid had to say, "First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with Jim Johnson and his family as they battle through this difficult time in his cancer treatments. I have been in constant communication with Jim and his wife throughout this offseason and they are thankful for all the support they have received from the Eagles organization, the fans and the entire NFL community.
"As far as Sean McDermott, we have full confidence he can continue to lead this defense in his new role. He showed great command and presence in the offseason camps and has had an opportunity to learn from the best in the business. He’s very smart, works very hard, and has a good rapport with the players and the assistant coaches. He’s ready for this and I’m confident he’ll do a great job."
