The Michigan Wolverines have lost yet another staff member on the defensive side of the ball, as co-defensive
coordinator/defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale is moving on from his post at Ann Arbor for a gig in the NFL.
According to various sources, Clinkscale is slated to join Jim Harbaugh’s Los Angeles Chargers coaching staff.
Sam Webb of The Michigan Insider outlined why Clink is making the switch.
Clinkscale has been with the Wolverines since 2021, when he was appointed to teach the defensive backs and
coordinate the defensive passing game. He was later promoted to co-defensive coordinator in 2022 and served in
that capacity this past season.
Guys like D.J. Turner (second-round pick in 2023) and Dax Hill (first-round pick in 2022) excelled under
Clinkscale’s tutelage in Ann Arbor. Other guys, such as Rod Moore and Will Johnson, are well on their way to
becoming NFL draft picks after learning a few things from Clink.
This is a difficult loss for Sherrone Moore, who still needs to hire a new defensive line and linebackers coach. Mike
Elston is also leaving Michigan to join the Los Angeles Chargers, while Jesse Minter will be Harbaugh’s defensive
coordinator.
Steve Casula, new Michigan tight ends coach, predicts the unit will be ‘outstanding’ in hiring announcement.
