TCU is targeting former Boise State head coach Andy Avalos as its next defensive coordinator, sources told FootballScoop on Monday.
Head coach Sonny Dykes is replacing Joe Gillespie, who was let go after two seasons running the Frogs' defense.
Avalos went 22-14 in three seasons as the head coach at his alma mater, and prior to that was among the most respected defensive coordinators in the country.
Avalos ran Oregon's defense from 2019-20. In 2019, Avalos's Ducks ranked 11th nationally in yards per play, ninth in scoring, 14th in passing efficiency, 13th in rushing, and tied for eighth in takeaways en route to winning the Pac-12 and the Rose Bowl.
Prior to that, Avalos spent 2016-18 as the defensive coordinator at Boise State, where his unit ranked as high as 15th in yards per play.
The former Boise State linebacker coached the Broncos' defensive line and linebackers prior to his promotion to coordinator. His units ranked among the top 15 nationally in sacks, and in 2014-15 Avalos helped Boise rank in the top 10 in turnovers both seasons. Avalos is credited with the development of longtime Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence.
Turnover creation will be a key emphasis for the Frogs this offseason after forcing only 12 takeaways in 12 games this season.
FootballScoop reported Sunday that defensive line coach JaMarkus McFarland and secondary coaches Carlton Buckles and Paul Gonzales are expected to return to the staff.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.