The Philadelphia Eagles named Sean McDermott as defensive coordinator Friday.
McDermott, 35, was already serving as the interim coordinator during spring and summer practices -- the move Friday gave McDermott official control as the head guy on defense.
The young coordinator had big shoes to fill.
The move was a bittersweet one for the Eagles family because McDermott’s official promotion came at the expense of long-time coordinator Jim Johnson who stepped aside in May so he could focus his attention on his battle against cancer.
"First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers are with Jim Johnson and his family as they battle through this difficult time in his cancer treatments," said Head Coach Andy Reid.
"I have been in constant communication with Jim and his wife throughout this offseason and they are thankful for all the support they have received from the Eagles organization, the fans and the entire NFL community,” Reid said.
As for McDermott he was reared under Johnson and Reid since he was named assistant to head coach in 1999. He also was a linebacker coach and secondary coach for the Eagles during the past decade.
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"As far as Sean McDermott, we have full confidence he can continue to lead this defense in his new role. He showed great command and presence in the offseason camps and has had an opportunity to learn from the best in the business. He’s very smart, works very hard, and has a good rapport with the players and the assistant coaches. He’s ready for this and I’m confident he’ll do a great job," said Reid.
The Eagles will hold a Saturday press conference to introduce McDermott in his new role.
