South Bend - Jevaughn Codlin's Return to Notre Dame: A Boost for the Irish Defense
Jevaughn Codlin's brief stint as safeties coach at North Texas was just a pit stop on his journey back to Notre Dame, and his return has been met with enthusiasm from the Fighting Irish community.
Freshman cornerback Khary Adams couldn't be happier, saying, “That’s my guy. During recruitment, he was a key figure. Our relationship was a big reason I chose Notre Dame.”
Codlin, who previously contributed to the Irish as a defensive line analyst in 2025, rejoined the team in February to guide the safeties. His background as a defensive back at Kansas Wesleyan, where he racked up 145 tackles and 45 pass breakups, laid the groundwork for his coaching career.
After playing in the Indoor Football League, Codlin transitioned to coaching, with stops at Emporia State and West Virginia under Neal Brown. It was Brown who initially brought him to North Texas, but Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman managed to lure him back.
Codlin's return comes at a crucial time, following the departure of Casey McHugh to Western Michigan and Mike Mickens' move to the NFL's Baltimore Ravens. His presence will ease the transition for former Illinois co-defensive coordinator Aaron Henry, now stepping up as co-DC alongside his mentor, Chris Ash.
Codlin's influence extends beyond the field. Many 2026 recruits credit him for building strong connections during the recruiting process.
“His energy is unmatched,” Adams said. “He's always pushing us to improve.”
Ayden Pouncey, a new defensive back from Orlando and relative of NFL stars Maurkice and Mike Pouncey, also felt Codlin's impact. Despite family ties to other programs, a conversation with "J-Cod" convinced him and his mom to visit Notre Dame. “My mom became a big fan,” Pouncey shared.
Freshman safety Nick Reddish echoed these sentiments. “We call him J-Cod.
He was my main recruiter and a great guy,” Reddish said. Codlin's return was eagerly anticipated by his recruits.
“He initially hesitated, but we all missed him. We needed him back.”
Codlin's football knowledge and infectious energy are undeniable assets to the team. “His energy is contagious,” Reddish noted. “When you feel it, you know you have to elevate your game.”
Codlin's homecoming to Notre Dame is more than just a return; it's a revitalization of the Irish defense, driven by his passion and expertise.