Sun Devils land new D-line coach

Arizona State University Head Football Coach Todd Graham has hired Joe Seumalo as the program’s defensive line coach.

“While Joe’s accomplishments and accolades over the years, especially during his time in Corvallis, speak for themselves, it’s who he is off the field that will truly benefit this program,” Coach Graham said. “He’s a gifted recruiter with deep ties across the West, and a proven developer of young men who gets the most out of his players. Joe will be a great fit in both this defense and this community.”

Seumalo (pronounced “say-u-MAH-lo”) spent nine seasons as the defensive line coach at Oregon State and his position group from 2006-14 was one of the most dominant units in the nation. He served as the defensive line coach at UNLV during the 2015 season.

“There is a long list of reasons why I decided to become a Sun Devil, but some of the aspects that really stood out to me were Coach Graham’s defensive philosophy, the diverse and talented staff he has established, and a school and community that truly love their football program,” Seumalo said. “I’m looking forward to getting to work.”

In nine seasons with the Beavers he produced 17 Pac-10/12 All-Conference recipients, including five first-team honorees, five National Football League draft picks, three All-Americans, two freshman All-Americans, and six conference all-academic first-team selections. At least one defensive lineman earned all-conference honors in each of Seumalo’s seasons in Corvallis, including all four starters in 2007.

Seumalo, who was ranked by Rivals.com as one of the top recruiters in the Pac-12 in 2013, mentored some of the most imposing defensive lineman in conference history, including Stephen Paea, a second-round draft pick by the Chicago Bears in 2011, and 2014 third-round selection Scott Crichton.