Defensive Line / Defensive Assistant Coach

Department: Football OperationsReports To: Head Coach / Defensive CoordinatorLeague: Indoor Football League (IFL)Position SummaryThe Defensive Line Coach / Defensive Assistant is responsible for the development, preparation, and performance of the Quad City Steamwheelers' defensive line while assisting the Defensive Coordinator with overall defensive game planning and execution. This position will focus on developing defensive linemen in technique, pass rush, run defense, gap responsibility, and execution within the unique rules, spacing, and pace of the indoor game. The coach will also assist with opponent film breakdown, scouting reports, defensive installations, personnel evaluation, and game-day adjustments. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of defensive line fundamentals, defensive schemes, player development, and film study. experience is preferred. Key Responsibilities: Defensive Line Coaching & Player DevelopmentCoach and develop the defensive line in proper stance, alignment, footwork, hand placement, leverage, and block recognition. Develop effective individual and team pass-rush techniques designed for the condensed space and quick passing game of indoor football. Teach proper run fits, gap responsibilities, pursuit, tackling, and short-yardage techniques. Prepare defensive linemen to recognize offensive formations, protections, blocking schemes, and tendencies. Conduct individual drills and position meetings while assisting with overall defensive practice periods. Evaluate player performance through practice and game film and provide detailed instruction and feedback. Cross-train defensive personnel when necessary to maximize roster flexibility and game-day depth. Defensive Scheme & Game PreparationAssist the Defensive Coordinator with the development and implementation of weekly defensive game plans. Utilize Hudl or similar digital film platforms to break down opposing offenses and identify tendencies. Analyze offensive line personnel, protections, blocking schemes, quarterback tendencies, formations, and run/pass tendencies. Assist with defensive scouting reports, call sheets, personnel packages, and situational preparation. Help install and reinforce the team's defensive system during meetings, practices, and walkthroughs. Communicate defensive front adjustments and opponent tendencies during games. Maintain a strong understanding of IFL defensive rules and how they impact defensive line alignments and responsibilities. Player Personnel & RecruitingAssist the coaching and football operations staff in evaluating and recruiting defensive players. Review prospective player film and provide evaluations and recommendations on defensive linemen and other defensive personnel. Assist with tryouts, training camp evaluations, roster decisions, and player development. Identify athletic and versatile defensive linemen capable of transitioning from the traditional outdoor game to the speed and spacing of indoor football. Help maintain defensive depth within the IFL's limited active roster structure. Football Operations SupportAssist the Head Coach, Defensive Coordinator, and football operations staff with day-to-day team responsibilities as needed. Support training camp, practices, team meetings, travel, equipment, player personnel, and game-day operations. Help ensure players understand and comply with team and IFL rules, policies, and expectations. Maintain professionalism when representing the Quad City Steamwheelers during games, travel, community appearances, and team events. Perform additional football-related responsibilities as assigned by the Head Coach, Defensive Coordinator, or front office. Qualifications / RequirementsExperience: Previous defensive line coaching and/or playing experience at the collegiate, indoor/arena, or professional level preferred. experience is a plus. Defensive Knowledge: Strong understanding of defensive line fundamentals, pass-rush techniques, run fits, blocking schemes, defensive fronts, and situational football. Indoor Football Knowledge: Understanding of indoor/arena football rules, spacing, defensive restrictions, and the differences between the indoor and traditional outdoor game preferred. Technology: Experience with Hudl or similar digital film breakdown and scouting platforms preferred. Leadership: Ability to effectively teach, communicate, motivate, and develop professional football players while working collaboratively within the defensive coaching staff. Adaptability: Ability to handle multiple coaching and operational responsibilities within a lean, fast-paced professional football environment. Availability: Ability to work practices, games, meetings, training camp, team travel, and other football operations responsibilities throughout the IFL season. Equal Opportunity EmployerWe are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.