Staff Updates for 2026

[Lobot]

I don't think Mickens would come to UC from ND unless it was a substantial "promotion," i.e. defensive coordinator. Otherwise, why leave a top program for a lateral move?

He's not coming here for DBs, I can tell you that. He makes as much as some DC's in his current position at ND. Making a lateral move back here would be financially stupid for him. Would he come here as a DC? Maybe, maybe not. We'd have to open the wallet to get him here and he's unproven as a DC.

[GoBearcats31]

Army defensive coordinator Nate Woody will be the new DC for UC, per various UC reporters
https://goarmywestpoint.com/sports/f...ate-woody/2392

Looks like he was Satterfield's DC for most of his head coaching tenure at App State

[GoBearcats31]

Thamel: "Cincinnati has signed contract extensions with GM Zach Grant and director of sports performance Niko Palazeti that will keep them with the program through at least 2028. Both are key building blocks for Cincinnati as they've transitioned to the Big 12."

And here's a release from UC -- it is dated January 3, but pretty sure this just came out
https://gobearcats.com/news/2026/01/...act-extensions

[red_n_black_attack]

Army defensive coordinator Nate Woody will be the new DC for UC, per various UC reporters
https://goarmywestpoint.com/sports/f...ate-woody/2392

Looks like he was Satterfield's DC for most of his head coaching tenure at App State

I was curious what is the connection to add one of the better DCs. Woody has had a top 15 ranked defense at least 3 times. We won't add players from Army, but having Woody in place will help with recruiting the portal. I'm kinda excited to have landed Woody.