OMAHA, Neb. – Former Nebraska standout John Parrella will return to Lincoln as an assistant coach and former NFL general manager Billy Devaney will join Mike Riley’s staff in an administrative position.

Riley announced Wednesday that Parrella would replace defensive line coach Hank Hughes, who was fired Feb. 5.

Devaney, the St. Louis Rams general manager from 2008-11, was hired for the new positions of executive director of player personnel and special assistant to the head coach.

“I am confident we have added two individuals that will enhance our football program in many areas,” Riley said. “We are proud to bring John Parrella home to Nebraska as our defensive line coach. John will bring great energy and expertise to our defensive staff. He knows what it means to wear a Blackshirt and has the personality to connect with his players and prospective student-athletes.”

Parrella, 46, has been defensive line coach at Division II Northern Michigan University the past two seasons. He previously was an assistant at Chabot College in California. He’s on a two-year contract at Nebraska and will be paid $250,000 annually.

Parrella grew up 80 miles west of Lincoln, in Grand Island, and played for Tom Osborne from 1988-92. He played 12 years for three NFL teams, including the San Diego Chargers when Riley was that team’s head coach from 1999-2001.

“I am fired up to be a part of the Nebraska program and to have the opportunity to work with this coaching staff,” Parrella said. “I have nothing but the greatest respect for Coach Riley and the University of Nebraska.”

Devaney, 60, has worked in NFL administrative and player personnel roles since 1979.