Michigan Hires Alex Whittingham as Linebackers Coach Under Father Kyle Whittingham
Ann Arbor, MI – The University of Michigan is making waves in the college football coaching world as new head coach Kyle Whittingham finalizes his inaugural coaching staff. Among the latest hires is a familiar name: Alex Whittingham, Kyle’s son, who will serve as the Wolverines’ new linebackers coach.
Alex, 33, brings extensive NFL experience, having spent several years with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he was part of a coaching staff that guided the team to multiple Super Bowl titles. The hire represents both a personal reunion and a strategic move, adding top-level defensive expertise to Michigan’s staff.
From Utah to the NFL: Alex Whittingham’s Journey
Alex Whittingham played collegiately at Utah under his father from 2013 to 2017, learning the intricacies of defensive schemes and the discipline required to succeed at a high level. Following his playing career, Alex transitioned directly into coaching.
In 2018, he began his professional coaching career with the Kansas City Chiefs as a defensive assistant, focusing on outside linebackers. His early years allowed him to gain hands-on experience developing professional athletes and learning under some of the league’s top defensive minds.
Over the years, Alex moved through several positions within the Chiefs’ staff:
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2019: Defensive quality control, working with the defensive line
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2020–2023: Defensive quality control for linebackers
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2024: Returned to defensive assistant role, working with the secondary
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2025: Promoted to defensive line coach
His versatility across multiple defensive units gave him a comprehensive understanding of NFL-level schemes and player development.
Proven Track Record in Kansas City
During his tenure, Alex contributed to the Chiefs’ defensive success, helping Kansas City rank in the top 10 in points allowed in six of eight seasons. In 2025, under his guidance as defensive line coach, the Chiefs allowed the 10th-fewest rushing yards per game (104.9) and the sixth-fewest yards per rush (4.0).
Alex’s influence extended to individual player development as well. He coached top defensive talents including:
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Defensive linemen: Chris Jones, Frank Clark, George Karlaftis
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Linebackers: Nick Bolton, Justin Houston
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Cornerbacks: L’Jarius Sneed, Trent McDuffie
His experience with elite athletes in multiple positions is expected to be invaluable at Michigan, particularly for the linebacker corps.
Super Bowl Experience and Coaching Pedigree
Alex Whittingham was part of three Super Bowl-winning teams in Kansas City (2020, 2022, 2023) and worked closely with defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, widely regarded as one of the top defensive minds in the NFL.
During this time, he learned not just technique, but also game-planning, in-game adjustments, and player management—skills that will transfer directly to his role at Michigan. The combination of professional success and football IQ positions him as a rising star in college coaching ranks.
Why Michigan Hired Alex Whittingham
Several factors make Alex an ideal hire for the Wolverines:
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Familiarity with the Whittingham Philosophy – Having played for Kyle at Utah, Alex understands his father’s coaching philosophy and values.
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NFL-Level Expertise – Alex brings years of experience coaching professional athletes at the highest level, a rare asset for college programs.
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Proven Development Record – From top-tier linebackers to elite defensive linemen, Alex has a history of developing talent and preparing players for high-pressure situations.
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Super Bowl Experience – Three championships in the NFL provide credibility and a winning mentality that he can instill in college players.
By hiring Alex, Michigan not only gains a top-tier coach but also strengthens the continuity and culture under Kyle Whittingham’s leadership.
Potential Impact on Michigan’s Defense
As linebackers coach, Alex will be tasked with:
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Developing linebacker technique and instincts
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Improving run defense and gap control
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Mentoring young players for leadership roles on defense
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Integrating NFL concepts into the collegiate system
Michigan fans can expect to see a more disciplined, physically dominant linebacker unit, reflecting both Alex’s NFL experience and his understanding of college-level talent development.
Michigan’s Coaching Staff Moves
The Whittinghams’ collaboration is part of a broader effort to revitalize Michigan football. Kyle’s first coaching hires aim to combine NFL experience with college coaching knowledge, giving the Wolverines a competitive edge in the Big Ten.
Alex’s hiring also highlights a growing trend in college football: bringing in young, professionally trained coaches to accelerate player development and modernize schemes.
Reactions from the Football Community
The news has generated excitement among Michigan fans and football analysts:
“Hiring Alex Whittingham is a coup for Michigan. Not only does he have NFL experience, but he knows the Whittingham system inside and out,” said one analyst.
Social media reactions were also positive, with fans noting the potential for Alex to develop the next generation of linebackers and defensive leaders.
Looking Ahead: Michigan Football 2026
With Alex Whittingham on board, Michigan’s defensive unit is poised for improvement. His NFL pedigree, experience coaching elite talent, and ability to bridge professional and collegiate coaching philosophies make him a critical addition to the staff.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on the Wolverines’ linebackers to see how quickly they adapt to Alex’s coaching style. Given his background, expectations are high for both performance on the field and development of future NFL prospects.
Conclusion: A Family Affair with Professional Excellence
The hiring of Alex Whittingham as linebackers coach underscores Michigan’s commitment to excellence, development, and winning culture. Working under his father Kyle, Alex brings an unusual combination of NFL experience, coaching versatility, and championship pedigree to the college game.
For Michigan fans, the move represents both a family connection and a strategic masterstroke, signaling a defense that is set to be disciplined, innovative, and physically dominant in the coming season.
With Alex Whittingham joining the Wolverines, Michigan football fans can look forward to a new era of linebacker development, defensive prowess, and competitive success in the Big Ten.
