West Virginia Promotes Jeff Koonz to Defensive Coordinator, Replacing Jordan Lesley
West Virginia has appointed Jeff Koonz as the new defensive coordinator, taking over from Jordan Lesley for the remainder of the season. Koonz previously held the role of defensive coordinator at Cincinnati in 2016 and has served as the inside linebackers coach and special teams coordinator at West Virginia since 2020 under head coach Neal Brown.
“These decisions are never easy, but I believe this change is in the best interest of our program and will help us finish the season strong,” Brown stated. “Our players have a significant opportunity ahead of them, and I trust they will give their all for WVU. Jeff Koonz will now lead the defense, and I am confident that he and our staff will do everything possible to ensure our success.”
Lesley had been with the team since 2020 and worked with Brown at Troy since 2016. The Mountaineers, currently standing at 4-4 overall and 3-2 in the Big 12, have allowed 99 points in their last three games.
“I met with Coach Lesley this morning and informed him about the change in the defensive coordinator position,” Brown added. “I am grateful for the contributions Jordan and his family have made to West Virginia football. He has been an important member of my staff for nearly a decade, and I wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
West Virginia will take a break this week and will return to play on November 9 against Cincinnati.