Notre Dame Football Assistants Have Bright Futures

SOUTH BEND, IN - OCTOBER 21: Head coach Brian Kelly of Notre Dame Fighting Irish talks to an assistant coach in the third quarter of a game against the USC Trojans at Notre Dame Stadium on October 21, 2017 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame won 49-14. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

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SOUTH BEND, IN – NOVEMBER 04: Jerry Tillery #99 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish rushes against Ryan Anderson #70 of the Wake Forest Demon Deaconsat Notre Dame Stadium on November 4, 2017 in South Bend, Indiana. Notre Dame defeated Wake Forest 48-37.(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Mike Elston (Associate Head Coach/Defensive Line)

Elston has been on Kelly’s staff since 2004, which rightfully raises questions about his head coaching stock. He’s never stood alone as a defensive coordinator, and he’s not a young up and comer. With that said, he has served a variety of roles for Brian Kelly. He’s coached linebacker, defensive line, special teams, served as recruiting coordinator and even holds the title of Associate Head Coach.

Elston is more than qualified to be a Division 1 Head Coach, and I’m sure if you asked Brian Kelly, he would say he deserves his chance. If Elston makes the leap, look for it to come soon. Methinks the Associate Head Coaching title was just another stepping stone for Coach Elston.

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