Former NFL Players Who Became Head Coaches At HBCUs
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HBCU football has a storied history that began more than a century ago, making it a vital part of African American culture and sports. Starting with the first recorded game between Biddle University (now Johnson C. Smith University) and Livingstone College in 1892, HBCU football programs became a hub of talent and opportunity during the segregation era, producing NFL legends like Jerry Rice, Walter Payton, and Deacon Jones.
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Fast forward to recent years, and a dynamic shift is taking place—thanks to NFL icons stepping into coaching roles at HBCUs. This trend, sparked by the hiring of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders as head coach of Jackson State University in 2020, has revitalized interest in HBCU football and elevated its national visibility. Sanders brought unparalleled attention to HBCUs, recruiting top-tier talent like the number one high school player and future Heisman Trophy winner, Travis Hunter, and his sons, Sheduer and Shilo, transforming Jackson State into a competitive powerhouse. During his standout tenure, Sanders achieved a coaching record of 38-17 and left a lasting legacy before moving on to the University of Colorado.
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The trend has continued in 2024. NFL legend Michael Vick was named the head coach of Norfolk State University and according to reports, former Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver DeSean Jackson will be named the head man at Delaware State.
Since then, other NFL legends have followed suit, bringing their professional expertise and reputations to HBCUs: This infusion of NFL talent on the sidelines is far more than symbolic. It brings technical expertise, heightened recruitment opportunities, and renewed energy to these programs, ensuring HBCUs remain competitive while shaping the next generation of athletes.
The impact of these NFL legends coaching at HBCUs isn’t limited to football—it’s about creating opportunities, inspiring future leaders, and reinforcing the critical role of HBCUs in America’s sports legacy.
Eddie George – The former Tennessee Titans running back became the head coach at Tennessee State University in 2021, bringing his NFL experience to the collegiate level. Under George’s leadership, Tennessee State posted a 9-3 overall record in the 2024 season, sharing the Big South/OVC championship.
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Doug Williams – Known for being the first black quarterback to win a Super Bowl, Williams has had multiple coaching stints at HBCUs, including as head coach at Grambling State University. Williams had a head coaching record of 61-34 at GSU.
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Tyrone Wheatley: With a wealth of NFL experience, Wheatley coached Morgan State University from 2019 to 2021, gaining valuable collegiate coaching experience.
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Monte Coleman: A former NFL linebacker, Coleman took the helm at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, guiding the team to a SWAC Championship.
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Sean Gilbert – Gilbert, a former NFL defensive tackle, transitioned into coaching after his playing career. He became the head coach at Livingstone College, an HBCU located in Salisbury, North Carolina.
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Greg Ellis – Ellis was hired as the head football coach at Texas College, located in Tyler, Texas in October 2020.
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