Amidst the chaos that has in recent weeks engulfed the program, Northwestern football is working to move forward with the 2023 season that kicks off in little more than six weeks and training set to open in approximately two weeks.
To that end, the Wildcats are working to fill the vacant spot on the defensive side of the ball following David Braun’s elevation from defensive coordinator to interim head coach in the wake of Pat Fitzgerald’s firing.
Multiple sources tell FootballScoop that Eastern Washington defensive play-caller Jeff Copp is the top target of Braun and the Wildcats to fill that opening.
Braun and Copp have a longstanding friendship, sources tell FootballScoop, and the two also share previous experience coaching together from their time at UC-Davis.
A former Boise State player, Copp has both Football Bowls Subdivision and Football Championship Subdivision coaching pedigree. Most recently serving as Eastern Washington’s defensive coordinator last season, his third on staff, Copp also stints at Utah State and Florida International at the FBS level as well as Idaho State and Northern Arizona at FCS.
Copp’s veteran presence and tight relationship with Braun are seen as keys to help the overall function of the defense as the Wildcats prepare to navigate an unprecedented season.
All moves at Northwestern are pending a rigorous background check.
The Wildcats open their 2023 season Sept. 3 – a rare Sunday game – at Big Ten foe Rutgers.
Northwestern’s first home game with Braun atop the program is Sept. 9 against UTEP.