B.C. Lions head coach Mike Benevides reacts to a play against the Edmonton Eskimos during second half CFL action in Edmonton on June 13, 2014. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson
VANCOUVER – Mike Benevides is back as the B.C. Lions defensive co-ordinator.
Benevides assumes the role on new head coach Buck Pierce’s staff, the Lions announced Thursday.
Benevides had spent the last two years as B.C.’s special-teams co-ordinator and replaces Ryan Phillips, who remains with the organization as secondary coach and pass-game co-ordinator.
Benevides enters his 15th season with the organization (2003-14, 2023-present). He served as the Lions’ defensive co-ordinator from 2008-12 and head coach from 2012-14.
He was also served the defensive co-ordinator with Ottawa (2021-22) and Edmonton (2016-18). A three-time Grey Cup champion, Benevides began his CFL coaching career with the Calgary Stampeders (2000-02) serving as a defensive assistant, linebackers coach and special teams co-ordinator.
Corey McDiarmid replaces Benevides as Lions special-teams co-ordinator. He held the same position with the Ottawa Redblacks from 2022-24.
The remainder of the staff includes: Kevin Bourgoin (receivers); Paul Charbonneau (offensive line); Randy Melvin (defensive line); Glen Young (linebackers) and Derek Oswalt (assistant coach).
The Lions also announced Pierce will also serve as their offensive co-ordinator. A running backs coach will be hired at a later date.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 2, 2025.
