If not for Duane Akina, Arizona may not have posted one of the best seasons in school history in 2023. And without him the Wildcats likely wouldn’t have managed to get so many key players to stick with the program in 2024.

Akina also played an integral role in Arizona’s roster rebuild this offseason, but he won’t be around to coach that new group.

247Sports is reporting that Akina is leaving Arizona to coach the secondary at Texas, where he had previously served as an assistant from 2001-13. He replaces Terry Joseph, who left for a gig with the New Orleans Saints

The 68-year-old Akina was set to coach his 15th season at Arizona, third in this stint after being on Dick Tomey’s staffs from 1987-2000. After serving as an analyst with the Wildcats in 2023 he was their defensive coordinator last season under first-year head coach Brent Brennan, a move that was credited with helping the UA retain several players following Jedd Fisch’s departure to Washington.

Akina was in line to coach Arizona’s defensive backs in 2025 as Danny Gonzales was elevated to defensive coordinator. His departure leaves Brennan with another opening on his staff after already making several changes

Ex-Wildcat great Joe Salave’a was hired to coach the defensive line, with Seth Doege brought in to be offensive coordinator and Josh Miller to coach right ends.

Arizona also has a vacancy for special teams coordinator, a role Gonzales held last year along with coaching linebackers.

The UA is set to begin spring practice on March 18 with a roster that will include more than 50 newcomers following a disappointing 4-8 record in 2024.