Ohio State Courting Former Superstar D-Coordinator Jim Heacock

When Urban Meyer was hired as the head coach of Ohio State in November 2011, one of his initial goals was to compile a strong coaching staff.

“I think Ohio State deserves the best group of assistant coaches in America,” Meyer said at his introductory press conference. “Some will be on this staff, some will be from anywhere in the country."

While Meyer did retain three members from the Buckeyes' previous coaching staff (Luke Fickell, Stan Drayton and Mike Vrabel), long-time defensive coordinator Jim Heacock wasn't among them.

That could change in 2013.

According to Jason Priestas of ElevenWarrios.com, Heacock and Ohio State have engaged in conversations about him rejoining the ranks in Columbus.

"

Former Buckeye defensive coordinator Jim Heacock in talks to return to Ohio State. 11w.rs/14HDrzB

— Eleven Warriors (@11W) March 10, 2013"

Heacock would be an incredible addition to an already stellar staff that's fresh off of leading the Buckeyes to a perfect 12-0 season in 2012. While Heacock wouldn't be taking on an assistant role (Eleven Warriors expects Heacock to come in on a "quality control capacity"), his credentials, experience and success would be a huge asset to Ohio State.

Heacock was the Buckeyes' defensive coordinator from 2005-2011, leading Ohio State to a level of dominance that few teams could maintain. His teams consistently performed at a high level, ranking in the top 10 on a near annual basis.

Ohio State's Defense Under Jim Heacock

Year	Yards per game	National Rank
2005	275.3	5th
2006	273.0	13th
2007	225.3	1st
2008	279.3	8th
2009	262.5	5th
2010	250.3	3rd
2011	328.6	25th

Statistics per Rivals.com.

Nothing is final yet, though, so this will be a situation Ohio State fans will have to watch as the Buckeyes continue through spring practice.

David Regimbal is the lead Ohio State football writer for Bleacher Report.
Follow him on Twitter @davidreg412.