Oregon Football Hires NFL Vet Ron Aiken as Defensive Line Coach
Jan. 3, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Kansas State Wildcats wide receiver Chris Harper (3) runs the ball against Oregon Ducks defensive back Erick Dargan (4) during the first half while playing the Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports
In a Press Release from the University of Oregon, Head Coach Mark Helfrich has hired Ron Aiken as Defensive Line Coach. He replaces popular coach Jerry Azzarino, who left to pursue other opportunities.
Ron Aiken, who spent the past six years among the most respected defensive line mentors in the NFL while accumulating 23 years of experience as a defensive assistant at the Division I and professional levels, has been named defensive line coach at the University of Oregon, according to the Ducks’ head football coach Mark Helfrich.
"“Ron Aiken is an icon in the defensive line community,” Helfrich said. “His vast experience – coaching in all phases at the high school, college and pro level – will complement our current staff."
According to GoDucks.com, during his NFL tenure, he played a role in the development of three-time All-Pro defensive tackle Darnell Dockett, who led the league’s interior linemen in quarterback sacks in 2007 (9) and 2009 (7), and tied the franchise record for most sacks in a single season by a defensive tackle the former year. Aiken also aided in the emergence of defensive end Calais Campbell, who led or shared the team lead in QB takedowns in 2011 (8), 2010 (6) and 2009 (7) before pacing all Arizona linemen in 2012 (6.5).
Justin Phillips is Sports Reporter for Newsradio 1120 KPNW in Eugene, Oregon