MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – West Virginia University Football Coach Neal Brown has announced that inside linebackers coach Jeff Koonz will take over as defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season, replacing Jordan Lesley.

In a statement, Coach Brown said, “I met with Coach Lesley this morning and informed him of the decision to make a change at the defensive coordinator position. I am very grateful for the dedication Jordan and his family have shown to West Virginia football. He has been an essential part of my staff for nearly ten years. He is an excellent coach and an outstanding person, and I am confident he will find success in his future endeavors. We will support him in that journey.

“Making these decisions is never easy, but I believe this change is in the best interest of our program and will position us to finish the season strongly. Our players have a great opportunity ahead of them, and I trust they will give their best for WVU. Jeff Koonz will step up as the defensive coordinator moving forward, and I am confident he and our entire staff will work tirelessly to ensure our success.”