Cardinals reportedly expect to hire Shawn Jefferson as WR coach

The Arizona Cardinals expect to hire former New York Jets assistant Shawn Jefferson as their wide receivers coach, reports CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd.

Jefferson, who with the Jets the past two years coached receivers and was an assistant offensive head coach, became available recently as New York fired head coach Adam Gase. Jefferson will replace David Raih, who the Cardinals reportedly let go since their 8-8 finish.

Arizona also has a hole at passing game coordinator after veteran NFL coach Tom Clements reportedly retired. Clements held the title of passing game coordinator and QB coach, and Dodd reported that assistant Cam Turner was promoted to at least fill the quarterback coaching role.

It is unclear if Jefferson or Turner will take on duties beyond their respective position groups.

Prior to his time with New York, Jefferson coached receivers for the Miami Dolphins (2016-18), Tennessee Titans (2013-15) and Detroit Lions (2008-12). He joined Detroit as an offensive assistant in 2006 and was promoted to assistant wide receivers coach the next year before another promotion to lead the position group in 2008.

Among notable players coached by Jefferson is Calvin Johnson, who had his best two NFL season in terms of total receiving yards with the Detroit Lions in 2011 and 2012. Johnson’s 1,964 receiving yards in 2012 is an NFL record.

Jefferson has one significant link to the Cardinals, as he was on the 2016 Dolphins staff that included current Arizona defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.

Jefferson played receiver for the San Diego Chargers (1991–95), New England Patriots (1996–99), Atlanta Falcons (2000–02) and Lions (2003). He accumulated 7,029 yards and 29 touchdowns in his NFL career.

The 51-year-old Jefferson is the father of Los Angeles Rams rookie receiver Van Jefferson.

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