Dempsey makes the jump to defensive coordinator for the Lakers in 2026 after spending last season as the linebackers coach. Last season, he helped coach the Lakers to a winning season in the NEC. Dempsey and the Lakers held eventual national champions Montana State to just 17 points and their second lowest passing yards on the season.
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In 2024, Dempsey served as a defensive analyst at Notre Dame. He helped the Fighting Irish to fourth ranked scoring defense in the FBS while making it to the CFP National Championship.
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During his first stint with the Lakers from the 2019 to 2023 seasons, Dempsey coached 10 All-Conference players, including an All-American linebacker Jake Holl.
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Dempsey got his start in coach at his alma mater Valparaiso as a defensive student assistant, coaching cornerbacks and safeties.
