Air Force defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter is expected to interview for the Texas A&M defensive coordinator position this week, the San Antonio Express-News reported.

The paper, quoting a source within the Aggies’ program, said DeRuyter is considered a leading candidate to replace the retired Joe Kines.

DeRuyter’s name also had been linked to the coordinator position at Georgia, which reportedly has been offered to Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart.

On Friday, DeRuyter declined The Gazette’s request to discuss speculation about his future.

A 1985 academy graduate, DeRuyter employed an aggressive 3-4 defensive scheme that was among the nation’s best in 2009. The Falcons finished the season ranked 10th in scoring defense and 11th in total defense.

DeRuyter earned $205,000 in 2009 but likely would be offered more than double that annually by Texas A&M.

Air Force football defensive coordinator Tim DeRuyter. Photo by Staff Photographer

Kevin Kreck