The Gophers are close to hiring Bob Ligashesky as its next special teams coordinator, a source confirmed to the Pioneer Press.

The hiring of Ligashesky, which was first reported by ESPN, would fill need left by Rob Wenger, who stepped down earlier this week after seven seasons at Minnesota.

Ligashesky has 39 years of coaching experience, most recently at Syracuse in 2022-23. Last season, the Orange’s punt return and opponent kick return units were around 50th in the nation in average yards, while their kickoff return and opponent punt return groups were below 100th in the country. In 2022, Syracuse had the seventh best kickoff return unit and blocked two field goals.

Ligashesky previously worked for six NFL teams across 12 years, including in roles as special teams coordinator. He won a Super Bowl with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2008. He has also been on college staffs at Illinois, Pittsburgh and Bowling Green.

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