OB with a few notes:
* The loss of running backs coach Tashard Choice to the Detroit Lions is considered a significant blow behind the scenes. Not only was Choice viewed as an excellent coach and team leader, but he was also a key recruiter, especially in Georgia. That state was successfully navigated by Choice during recruiting, which makes replacing him difficult, though not impossible, according to my sources.
* One NFL source told me that Choice wanted a larger role in game planning and putting together the offense. Additionally, he desired to work with the offensive line, an opportunity he will have in Detroit.
* Texas wanted Choice to remain on staff, but Detroit was determined to hire him.
How much?
Detroit paid Choice’s buyout of $850,000 to hire him.
* I was informed that Sarkisian is currently assembling a list of candidates. As of Thursday, it was too early to determine which coaches Sarkisian will target.
* However, I have not yet heard either former Texas running backs coach Stan Drayton or Oregon running backs coach Ra’Shad Samples heavily mentioned as candidates. When the Dallas Cowboys pursued Choice a few weeks ago, neither was viewed as a frontrunner for the role.
* Hopefully, for Texas fans, Sarkisian has the same success replacing Choice as he did in finding Blake Gideon’s replacement.
I was told Mark Orphey interviewed in Austin on Monday and immediately emerged as Sarkisian’s top choice. Orphey aced the interview, and his ability to recruit in Houston was a huge selling point.
* According to my sources, it is unclear if Orphey will coach safeties or cornerbacks at Texas. I was told Orphey can coach both positions. However, Sarkisian’s primary goal was to hire Orphey, and he will eventually determine which positions Terry Joseph and Orphey will coach after securing his commitment.