Michael is joined by former Bills and Jets defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman, who worked alongside head coach Rex Ryan with both franchises from 2008-16. Thurman, who starred at safety for Southern California, played nine seasons at cornerback for the Cowboys and Cardinals before entering coaching in 1988. He developed a terrific reputation for mentoring defensive backs during his years as a secondary coach in both college football (USC) and the NFL (Ravens and Jets) prior to becoming a coordinator. His pupils have included Troy Polamalu, Ed Reed, Chris McAlister, Samari Rolle, Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie, among others. Thurman appeared in one Super Bowl as a player and reached a total of six conference championship games during his career.