Coastal Carolina University football is ushering in a new era on defense with the hiring of Jeremiah Johnson as the Chanticleers’ defensive coordinator. Head coach Tim Beck announced the addition, expressing excitement about Johnson’s innovative approach and proven track record of success. Johnson replaces Craig Naiver, who will not return for the 2025 season.
“Change is never easy, but we are excited for Jeremiah to bring a fresh voice to our defensive unit,” Beck said. “He’s one of the most innovative defensive minds in the game, and his coaching style will complement our offense. Spring football and fall camp will be fun to watch as our new coordinators match up preparing for 2025.”
Johnson, who most recently served as the defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech, has a resume brimming with accolades. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs' defense saw a meteoric rise in 2024, finishing 12th in total defense nationwide after ranking 110th just a season earlier. LA Tech also made jaw-dropping improvements in scoring defense (from 117th to 26th) and rushing defense (from 132nd to 44th). These stats paint a clear picture of the kind of transformation Coastal Carolina fans can expect.
“My family and I are really excited about the opportunity to work with Coach Beck and the Coastal Carolina Football Family,” Johnson said. “It is an honor to be the defensive coordinator here, and I am looking forward to building relationships with the student-athletes, staff, and community.”
From the Midwest to Myrtle Beach: Johnson's Proven Pedigree
Johnson’s journey to Coastal Carolina has been marked by consistent success at every stop. Prior to his one-year stint at Louisiana Tech, Johnson honed his craft at Northern Iowa, spending 15 seasons with the Panthers and leading their defense for nine of those years. Under his leadership, Northern Iowa became a perennial force in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC), producing 32 First Team All-MVFC defenders, five conference Defensive Players of the Year, and one Buck Buchanan Award winner.
During Johnson’s tenure, UNI won four MVFC championships, made 10 FCS Playoff appearances, and advanced past the first round in eight of those seasons. His impact was undeniable, as the Panthers regularly ranked among the top defensive units in the FCS.
Johnson’s coaching career began in the early 2000s at Loras College and Wyoming, where he gained experience as a graduate assistant and defensive backs coach. A Lawrence, Kansas native, Johnson earned his undergraduate degree in sports science from the University of Kansas in 2000 and later completed a master’s in athletic administration at Loras College.
What Johnson Brings to the Chanticleers
For Coastal Carolina fans, Johnson’s arrival represents more than just a personnel change—it’s a strategic shift. Known for his ability to turn defenses into disciplined, high-performing units, Johnson has repeatedly demonstrated an uncanny ability to maximize his players’ potential. His knack for crafting game plans that stifle opposing offenses should pair well with Beck’s offensive philosophy, setting the stage for a well-rounded Chanticleers team in 2025.
As the Chanticleers prepare for spring practices and fall camp, all eyes will be on the new-look defense and how Johnson’s vision comes to life. With his track record of rapid turnarounds and a passion for building relationships with players, there’s plenty of reason for optimism in Conway.
For Coastal Carolina, the Johnson hire signals a commitment to competing at the highest level. And for the Chanticleer faithful, the countdown to the 2025 season just got a whole lot more exciting.
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