The Gophers football program faces a significant challenge after news broke Saturday that defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman is leaving Minnesota to take the same role at Miami.
Hetherman, a standout hire, elevated the Gophers’ defense to new heights in 2024, ranking fifth nationally in yards allowed per game (285.7) and ninth in points allowed per game (16.9). His success suggested a long-term future at Minnesota, especially after signing a contract extension in December.
However, the Hurricanes’ financial resources proved too much to match, leaving Minnesota to quickly address this key coaching vacancy. With the late timing of Hetherman’s departure, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports the Gophers are likely to look internally for his replacement. Whoever steps into the role will face the daunting task of maintaining the high standard Hetherman set.
It’s no surprise the Gophers are eyeing internal options to fill the defensive coordinator role, as the program already boasts several top-tier defensive coaches. Among them, three stand out as strong contenders for the position:
Danny Collins
Collins, currently the safeties coach and defensive pass game coordinator, is a strong candidate to take the reins. Having been with P.J. Fleck since their days at Western Michigan, Collins has steadily climbed the coaching ladder during his eight seasons with the Gophers. This year, Minnesota’s pass defense tied for ninth nationally, allowing just 176.1 passing yards per game. Known for developing talents like NFL safety Tyler Nubin and freshman standout Koi Perich, Collins has proven his ability to elevate players. Becoming defensive coordinator could be his logical next step.
Nick Monroe
Monroe, the cornerbacks coach and co-defensive coordinator, is another leading choice. A Mahtomedi, Minn., native, Monroe brings two decades of coaching experience, including a successful tenure at Syracuse before joining Minnesota. His expertise has been pivotal in shaping the Gophers’ top-10 pass defense, and he’s maximized the potential of players like Justin Walley and Ethan Robinson. Monroe also has a proven track record of preparing players for the NFL.
A Potential Co-Coordinator Approach
According to Andy Greder of the Pioneer Press, P.J. Fleck might consider a co-defensive coordinator setup, a strategy he’s employed previously on offense. In this scenario, Monroe and Collins could share responsibilities, combining their complementary strengths to maintain the Gophers’ defensive excellence.
With these in-house options, the Gophers have a strong foundation to build on despite the unexpected departure of Corey Hetherman.
Winston DeLattiboudere III
Though Winston DeLattiboudere III may be the least experienced of the potential candidates, his rapid rise in coaching makes him an intriguing option. A former defensive lineman under P.J. Fleck, DeLattiboudere joined Minnesota’s staff as the defensive line coach in 2023 after a brief stint with Akron. His impact was immediate, boosting the Gophers’ pass rush from 10.5 sacks in 2022 to 20 in 2023.
This progress continued in 2024, with Minnesota totaling 28 sacks and ranking 12th nationally in rushing defense, allowing just 109.6 yards per game. DeLattiboudere’s success in developing the defensive line and improving the team’s overall performance speaks volumes about his potential.
While he might still need more experience before stepping into the defensive coordinator role, his familiarity with Fleck’s system and proven ability to elevate the defense make him a serious candidate worth considering.
