April 25, 2002

WACO, Texas - Baylor defensive coordinator Paul Jette announced his resignation from coaching Thursday, citing a desire to be near his two oldest daughters who are in school in North Carolina. Jette has accepted a job outside of the coaching profession.

A 25-year coaching veteran, Jette came to Baylor from East Carolina in 2001, where he had spent the previous seven seasons. After serving as the Bears' secondary coach last season, he was promoted to coordinator in February.

"This was a hard decision to make," Jette said, "because this program is about to turn the corner. But I felt the need to do what was right for my family. They have sacrificed enough for my career over the last 25 years, and now it's time for me to reciprocate.

"I can say only good things about Baylor University, the players on this football team, (head coach) Kevin Steele and his coaching staff. The commitment that this program has made to being competitive in the Big 12 Conference has been evident each day I've come to work here. I know that good things are ahead."

Steele said that there has been no timetable established for a replacement.

"This is disappointing," Steele said, "because Paul is an outstanding football coach and had done a wonderful job. He's left some big shoes to fill. I wish him and his family all the best."