Veteran Armwood secondary coach Darrell Palmer will replace Matt Thompson as Hawks defensive coordinator, Coach Sean Callahan confirmed Thursday.
Thompson, Callahan's coordinator the last decade, was formally introduced as Jesuit's new coach Wednesday.
Palmer, 51, has spent seven years on Callahan's staff. A 1979 Leto graduate and former Falcons receiver, his task is mountainous: replacing the architect of a veritable defensive steamroller that has helped produce three state titles and posted 40 shutouts the last 10 years.
During his tenure, Palmer has helped develop several college-caliber safeties and cornerbacks including senior FS Leon McQuay III, the nation's 32nd-ranked recruit according to ESPN.