



AUBURN, Alabama - Former Southern Miss head coach Ellis Johnson has agreed to become Auburn's next defensive coordinator,

late Wednesday night.

According to the report, Johnson has agreed to a three-year deal worth $800,000 a year.

Al.com reported earlier Wednesday that Johnson had interviewed for the position.

The hire marks the first for Malzahn, who was

.

Malzahn informed members of Gene Chizik's staff earlier Wednesday that they would not be retained.

Johnson was fired as Southern Miss' head coach Nov. 27 after his first and only season resulted in an 0-12 record.

He is no stranger to the SEC, having made stops as defensive coordinator at Mississippi State, and Alabama. He also has had stops at Clemson and Appalachian State.