Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Baltimore Ravens defensive line coach Joe Cullen is a top target to join the Jacksonville Jaguars’ staff under Urban Meyer as a defensive coordinator. The news comes after Meyer was named the Jags’ coach Thursday evening and introduce to the Jacksonville media Friday.
Two intriguing options have emerged for the staff of #Jaguars coach Urban Meyer: OC candidate Scott Linehan interviews early this week and is the favorite, while #Ravens DL coach Joe Cullen is a top target as defensive coordinator. Cullen has impressed in Baltimore since 2016.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 16, 2021
Cullen, 53, is a name many Jags fans will remember from the Jack Del Rio era as he was the Jags’ defensive line coach from 2010-12. During that time, the Jags ranked No. 28, No. 6, and No. 30, respectively, in total defense.
Cullen, who as been the Ravens’ defensive line coach since 2016, is a highly-respected name in the NFL coaching industry and would bring a high-energy member to Meyer’s staff. Since he’s been with Baltimore, they’ve ranked seventh, twelfth, first, fourth, and seventh in total defense. Cullen also helped develop defensive lineman Michael Pierce, Brandon Williams, and Timmy Jernigan and aided them in becoming a strong unit against the rush.
If Cullen is named the Jags’ lead defensive coach, it would be his first time he’s held an NFL coordinator role, but many feel he’s ready. His potential addition to the staff could possibly lead to the Jags utilizing the 3-4 more, though he’s coached some 4-3 units, too. Cullen bring 14 years of NFL coaching experience to the table after making stops in Detroit, Jacksonville, Tampa Bay, Cleveland, and Baltimore.
Cullen could have some of Meyer’s college assistants working alongside him in Charlie Strong and Chris Ash, who are expected to land jobs on the Jags’ staff as defensive assistants, too. Texans defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver has also been labeled as a name to watch as he was a graduate assistant under Meyer in 2010.
Another name to watch for the Jags’ defensive coordinator job is Raheem Morris, who the Jags interviewed for their head coaching vacancy. Due to his time serving as the Atlanta Falcons’ interim and his time as the Bucs’ head coach, he’ll have several offers on the table to choose from, though.
Jaguars' HC Urban Meyer is talking to former Falcons' HC Raheem Morris about becoming Jacksonville's defensive coordinator, per sources. The two sides have been in contract and continue to be, as Morris sifts through his opportunities.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 17, 2021