Ole Miss' new defensive coordinator leaving for NFL post

OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI - Reggie Herring, only weeks into his role as defensive coordinator at the University of Mississippi, is leaving to take an assistant coaching post in the NFL. <br> <br> Ole Miss head coach David Cutcliffe said Tuesday that Herring had accepted a position to coach the linebackers with the expansion Houston Texans. <br> <br> Herring joined the Ole Miss staff last month after eight years as an assistant coach at Clemson University, including the final five as defensive coordinator. <br> <br> ``Reggie has always had a desire to coach in the NFL and felt being a part of building an organization from the ground level was an opportunity he could not pass up,&#39;&#39; Cutcliffe said in a statement. <br> <br> ``It is fortunate for us that this occurred in time to find a replacement prior to spring practice, and during a time that will have no effect on our preparations for the 2002 season,&#39;&#39; Cutcliffe said. ``We wish Reggie and his family success in his future endeavors.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Herring could not immediately be reached Tuesday for comment. <br> <br> Cutcliffe said a search was already under way to fill the position. <br> <br> Spring football workouts are to begin at Ole Miss on March 1, with the annual Red-Blue game to be played April 6.