BOSTON — Boston College football coach Bill O’Brien added Ben Albert to his staff Wednesday as the new defensive line coach, according to Football Scoop.

Albert, a former UMass defensive tackle, last coached at BC from 2013 to 2015. He steps into the role after three seasons at UMass, where he served as special teams coordinator, defensive line coach and assistant head coach.

His career path took him through several stops before landing back in Chestnut Hill. Albert coached defensive lines at Richmond, Rutgers, Delaware and Temple. He also worked as an assistant defensive line coach with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

From 2016 to 2021, Albert held the defensive line coach position at Duke while doubling as co-defensive coordinator under David Cutcliffe.

The hire fills one of BC’s remaining staff openings. Defensive coordinator Ted Roof sought a seasoned presence to refine the Eagles’ front. Albert’s experience fits the bill for a unit that requires adjustments rather than a full overhaul.

John Sarianides of the Northeast Football Journal first flagged Albert as a candidate Tuesday evening. The report gained traction when Football Scoop confirmed the deal the next morning.

BC went 7-6 last season under O’Brien, who took over after Jeff Hafley’s abrupt exit to the NFL. The Eagles reached the Fenway Bowl, beating SMU 23-14. They return key defenders like linebacker Harold Landry III and defensive end Donovan Ezeiruaku.

Albert’s return to New England aligns with his roots. A Massachusetts native, he played at UMass from 2001 to 2004 before entering coaching. His time at BC a decade ago overlapped with Steve Addazio’s tenure.

O’Brien’s staff overhaul continues. He already named Tim Murphy as offensive line coach and Donnie Kirkpatrick as cornerbacks coach. Two spots remain open: running backs and tight ends.

Albert praised the opportunity in a brief statement to Football Scoop. ‘Excited to return to BC and work with this group,’ he said. Officials expect him to start recruiting immediately ahead of the December signing period.

The Eagles open spring practice in March. Albert’s first task: integrating transfers and bolstering depth along the line after losing starters like Saint Francis edge rusher Joe Darko.

BC schedules Pitt on September 7 in its ACC opener. Albert knows the conference well from Duke. His track record includes developing NFL talents like Vinny Papale at Duke and Isaiah Rodgers at UMass.