Gophers coach Tracy Claeys announced Thursday that linebackers coach Mike Sherels will be away from the team while he recovers from recent surgeries, with no timetable for his return.

"We want to thank everyone for respecting Mike's privacy and that of his family," Claeys said in the press release. "We ask that you continue to do so as he recovers. Mike is a resilient man who represents the best of college football. He will be in our daily thoughts as we continue to prepare for the season, and we look forward to Mike's return to the staff when he is ready."

Claeys named Keith Jordan as acting linebackers coach. Jordan is in his 35th year working in football and had been working as the Gophers special teams quality control. He has also served as the defensive coordinator at Fort Scott Community College and coached at Northern Michigan, Northeast Missouri State and Southwest Baptist, along with 17 seasons in the high school ranks.