Aurora University welcomed the newest addition to the Athletic Department coaching staff as Jason Jefferson joined the football program as the defensive line coach.
 
"Coach Jefferson brings a wealth of experience to our defensive line. He has played at the highest level and does a fantastic job of breaking down techniques so our players can learn and apply what they are being taught," said AU head football coach Rick Ponx. "Coach Jefferson established a strong relationship with our players this spring and will be a great mentor, teacher and leader for our program and the AU campus community."
 
Jefferson came to AU after four seasons as an assistant football coach at Rockford University. Jefferson got his start in collegiate athletics as part of the National Football League Players Association Coaching Internship Program, a program which selects former NFL players to serve as coaching interns as Division II and III institutions.  A sixth round draft pick of the New Orleans Saints in 2005, Jefferson played five seasons in the NFL as a defensive tackle with the Buffalo Bills and the Atlanta Falcons. Jefferson also spent time with the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Chicago, Illinois native was a standout defensive lineman at the University of Wisconsin from 2000 to 2004. During his junior and senior seasons under legendary coach Barry Alvarez, Jefferson started 25 of 27 games and recorded 75 tackles and four tackles for loss, including two sacks.

"It is a great honor and privilege to join the Aurora University staff. I am grateful for the opportunity to work at a university with such great tradition both academically and athletically," said Jefferson. "I look forward to working with our student-athletes in the football program and the rest of the AU staff."
 
The AU football team opens the 2015 season on Saturday, September 5 at home on Vago Field against Illinois College. Kickoff is slated for 1:00 p.m.