The Arkansas Razorbacks have officially announced Nick Perry’s hiring as their new secondary coach. Perry joins the Razorbacks from the Seattle Seahawks, where he spent the 2024 season as a defensive assistant. His hiring fills the void left by Deron Wilson, who recently accepted the defensive coordinator position at Georgia State.
Perry brings a wealth of experience to Fayetteville, having previously spent six years as an active player and eight years as a coach at both the college and pro level. Notably in his time with Alabama, he helped develop future stars Minkah Fitzpatrick (Steelers), Trevon Diggs (Cowboys), and Patrick Surtain II (Broncos).
Before his coaching career, Perry was a standout defensive back at the University of Alabama. He won two national championships as a player in 2011 and 2012. Since then Perry has not replicated that level of success in different roles as a coach or player.
After a short stint in the NFL, signing with the Baltimore Ravens in 2015 and spending time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Perry eventually returned to Alabama to begin his coaching career as a graduate assistant.
Then, after climbing up the ranks quickly, he moved on to a defensive analyst role and was eventually brought on by the Atlanta Falcons. His time with the Falcons saw him contribute to the development of cornerback A.J. Terrell, who earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2012.
Under Perry’s watch, the Seahawks’ secondary ranked No. 9 in the NFL in yards per attempt and No. 12 in passing yards allowed. His work with Seattle’s defensive backs, including safety Julian Love and cornerback Devon Witherspoon, has been highly praised throughout the league.
Head Coach Sam Pittman expressed his excitement about Perry’s addition to the coaching staff, highlighting his strong background and proven track record. The Razorbacks’ secondary struggled in 2024, finishing No. 110 in the FBS in passing yards allowed per game.
The significant drop-off from ranking No. 33 in the country may get worse as Arkansas lost standout cornerback Jaylen Braxton to the transfer portal in December.
Having recruited DB Jordan Young (Cincinnati), safety Quentavius Scadrett (Eastern Michigan), and safety Caleb Wooden (Auburn) with more to come, Perry will primarily be tasked with bringing these new players into the system.
He’ll play a crucial role in the reshaping of Arkansas’s pass defense in an increasingly competitive SEC.
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