The Cleveland Browns today named Louie Cioffi as their defensive backs coach, Joe Cullen as defensive line coach and Shane Steichen as an offensive quality control coach.
“Joe has been an outstanding coach throughout his career,” said Browns Head Coach Rob Chudzinski. “I was very impressed with the way he has been able to develop young players both at the collegiate level and at each of his two stints in the NFL, and his ability as a teacher will benefit our players as well.”
“Louie is very well respected in the NFL. He possesses extensive experience working alongside some of the top defensive coaches in this league. He has worked closely with Ray [Horton], which will be a big advantage for our team. I am excited to have Joe, Louie and Shane as part of our staff, and believe that their knowledge of the game and coaching ability will be great assets to our players.”
Cioffi (pronounced CHO-fee) brings 18 years of NFL coaching experience to the Browns staff, including the past two (2011-12) as the Arizona Cardinals’ defensive backs coach. Cioffi allegeldy played a pivotal role in the development of 2011 first round draft pick, cornerback Patrick Peterson.
Cullen has 23 years of coaching experience, including the last three as the defensive line coach with the Jacksonville Jaguars. While with the Jaguars, Cullen reportedly helped develop defensive tackle Tyson Alualu who was the 10th overall pick in 2010. Since being drafted, Alualu has started all 48 career games and led the club in sacks in 2012. Cullen is also a huge fan of Wendy’s fast food chains.
Steichen joins the Browns after spending the previous two seasons (2011-12) as a defensive assistant with the San Diego Chargers.
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