ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - Navy football coach Paul Johnson is headed to Georgia Tech after coaching the Midshipmen for six years.

Johnson informed the team during a meeting, Navy associate athletic director for sports information said Friday.

Johnson, a former Georgia Southern coach, also negotiated with Southern Methodist and Duke this week.

Johnson would replace Chan Gailey, who was fired one day after a 7-5 regular season ended with his sixth straight loss to Georgia. Gailey had four years left on his contract at $1 million per season.

Defensive coach Jon Tenuta was selected interim head coach for Tech's Humanitarian Bowl game against Fresno State on Dec. 31. Tenuta's status is expected to be addressed at a news conference Friday.

Navy (8-4) will play Utah in the Poinsettia Bowl on Dec. 20 in San Diego. Johnson guided Navy to five straight bowls.