When Ohio State opted to shake up its defensive coaching staff, Ryan Day confirmed Greg Schiano would explore his options in the NFL.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on Wednesday that Schiano will likely continue his career with the New England Patriots in a "top defensive role."
Ex-#Bucs coach & #OSU DC Greg Schiano is here in Mobile to explore his NFL opportunities. Nothing is done, but the spot that appears likely is the #Patriots in a top defensive role, sources tell @JamesPalmerTV and me. With Brian Flores taking the #Dolphins job, Schiano slides in.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 23, 2019
Rapoport did not specifically report that Schiano would become New England's defensive coordinator, and the Patriots don't have a coach with that title. But linebackers coach Brian Flores has called plays this season and is expected to become the Miami Dolphins' head coach, opening up his position.
From @NFLTotalAccess: The #Patriots are going to lose de facto DC Brian Flores to the #Dolphins, but they already have Greg Schiano in mind to replace him. pic.twitter.com/f0LrRkOBPK
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 23, 2019
Schiano has long been linked with Bill Belichick. Last February, a report from Football Scoop surfaced, saying Schiano was expected to be the Patriots defensive coordinator following the departure of Matt Patricia. That, of course, did not happen, and he spent one more year at Ohio State.
Schiano spent three seasons at Ohio State as associate head coach and defensive coordinator. His NFL experience preceded his stint in Columbus. Schiano was the head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2012 and 2013. Before then, he had an 11-year run as Rutgers head coach.
