Maryland DC Scott Shafer leaves program for personal reasons

New Maryland defensive coordinator Scott Shafer resigned Friday for personal reasons according to the team.

Shafer, formerly Syracuse's head coach, was hired by Maryland in December.

“I want to thank DJ Durkin for the opportunity to be on his staff, but at this time I feel it’s best to step aside to tend to personal matters,” Shafer said in a statement. “I’m sincerely appreciative of his support and friendship.”

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Shafer joined Durkin's staff after he was fired from Syracuse. Durkin, formerly the defensive coordinator at Michigan, is entering his first season with the Terrapins.

“I, along with the entire Maryland football family, will continue to support Scott in every way that we can,” Durkin said.

Shafer became Syracuse's head coach in 2013 after serving as the team's defensive coordinator from 2009-2012. He had a record of 14-23 in his three seasons at Syracuse and was replaced by former Bowling Green coach Dino Babers.

Maryland did not announce a replacement for Shafer. The team has another former head coach on its defensive staff in Mike London, the ex-coach of Virginia.

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Nick Bromberg is the assistant editor of Dr. Saturday on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at nickbromberg@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter!

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