Memphis football's Kevin Johns expected to be hired by Duke as offensive coordinator, per reports

Memphis football will be in the market for an offensive coordinator as Kevin Johns is expected to be hired by Duke in the same role, according to multiple reports.

The Raleigh News and Observer reported Johns is in Durham, North Carolina, as negotiations are being finalized. ESPN also reported Johns was being targeted as Duke offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Johns has been at Memphis for the past three seasons but didn't begin calling plays until coach Mike Norvell was hired by Florida State after the 2019 AAC championship. His first game as play-caller was the Cotton Bowl against Penn State.

Johns worked closely with the Tigers quarterbacks, and Memphis finished in the top-20 nationally in passing offense the last two seasons. The Tigers finished 22nd nationally in total offense in 2020 with senior quarterback Brady White (453.1 yards per game) and 36th this season (435.8) led by true freshman quarterback Seth Henigan.

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However, Memphis had struggles running the ball. In the 24 games that Johns served as play-caller, the Tigers had 11 games with fewer than 100 rushing yards. They were also second-to-last in the AAC last season with 137.08 yards per game.

With Johns gone, it'll be the first time Memphis has to replace both its offensive and defensive coordinators since after the 2018 season. The Tigers hired Ohio State's Matt Barnes as defensive coordinator on Monday.

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Johns' departure could lead to potential dominoes. Henigan spoke often about his close relationship with Johns helping him adjust in his first season. With players entering the transfer portal after coaching changes, the Tigers will hope Henigan doesn't follow suit.

Memphis could also look within for a potential hire to replace Johns. Tight end coach Brad Salem was previously offensive coordinator at Michigan State in 2019 and also coached running backs and quarterbacks during his 10 seasons as an assistant with the Spartans.

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This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Kevin Johns to be hired as Duke football offensive coordinator