Nebraska head coach Mike Riley announced two new additions, the hiring of former Husker John Parrell as the defensive line coach and Billy Devaney as executive director of player personnel.
Parrella is from Grand Island and played for Nebraska from 1988 to 1992 (check out his old player profile picture in the gallery above), before going on to play 12 seasons in the NFL. Most recently, he coached for two seasons at Northern Michigan University.
Fired up and ready to get to work!#GBR pic.twitter.com/QxQq6iuQlB
— John Parrella (@Coach_Parrella) February 24, 2016
Bill Devaney comes to Nebraska after more than 30 years with the NFL. His most recent position was for the Atlanta Falcons as a pro personnel scout.
“I am confident we have added two individuals that will enhance our football program in many areas,” Riley said in a prepared statement Wednesday.
He noted that Parrella “knows what it means to wear a blackshirt and will be able to connect with the players and recruits.
Devaney will be responsible for identifying prospective student athletes, awarding scholarships and helping Riley with roster management.
“I spent a weekend in Lincoln last fall in my scouting role for the Falcons. The facilities and whole atmosphere was truly special, so the opportunity to work with Mike and his staff at a place like Nebraska was a no-brainer,” Devaney said.
Parella replaces Hank Hughes, who Riley announced earlier this month would not be returning for the 2016 season.
