XFL's Wildcats fire DC after 1 game
Just one game into the revived league's inaugural season, the XFL has its first firing.
The Los Angeles Wildcats have parted ways with defensive coordinator Pepper Johnson following their season-opening 37-17 loss to the Houston Roughnecks.
"We recognize that there are issues we need to address for the 2020 season," head coach Winston Moss said in a statement. "While these decisions are difficult, we have given this significant thought. We are here to put the best possible product on the field for our fans.
"We thank Pepper for his contributions to the Wildcats and we are looking forward to our home opener this weekend."
Johnson coached linebackers and defensive line in the NFL from 2000-16 in stints with the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills, and New York Jets. He was also the linebackers coach for the Memphis Express during the AAF's only campaign last year.
The Wildcats also appeared to cut Anthony Johnson, their defensive captain. He seemed to allude to his release Monday on Twitter.
Free Agent!
— Anthony Johnson (@AXJ76) February 10, 2020
Los Angeles will host the Dallas Renegades in Week 2. The Renegades also dropped their first game of the season.