Former Eagles Zordich, Caldwell get coaching promotions

As expected, Eagles alums Mike Zordich and Mike Caldwell yesterday took the next step toward becoming coordinators. And, by doing so, assumed responsibility for the Eagles' most demanding tasks.

Zordich, 47, was promoted from defensive quality control coach to defensive backs/safeties. He joined the staff in 2009 as an intern. Both seasons, he worked with the team's safeties, overseeing the development of Quintin Mikell and rookies Nate Allen and Kurt Coleman.

A team source indicated that Zordich likely will be joined by a cornerbacks coach. Young corners Dimitri Patterson and Joselio Hanson often were targeted this season.

Caldwell, 39, will take over a linebacker corps constantly in flux the past two seasons. Caldwell moved from training-camp intern in 2007 to defensive quality control in 2008 to assistant linebackers coach in 2010, when he helped rookie Jamar Chaney replace injured middle linebacker Stewart Bradley. Significantly, both Mikell and Bradley, the defense's leaders, can be free agents and might not return.

Zordich and Caldwell each came out of retirement after lengthy NFL careers to join Andy Reid's staff. They told the Daily News last month they aspired at least to become NFL coordinators, if not head coaches.

Zordich and the eventual cornerbacks coach will replace Dick Jauron, who left to become the Browns' defensive coordinator. Caldwell replaces Bill Shuey, whose contract was not renewed.

Both Zordich and Caldwell played for the Eagles while new defensive coordinator Juan Castillo was an offensive assistant with the team.