January 29th 2025.
Mississippi Valley State University recently made an exciting announcement - they have hired former NFL Pro Bowl cornerback Terrell Buckley as the new head coach for their football program. Buckley is the latest in a growing trend of former NFL players taking on leadership roles in university football programs.
In a written statement, Buckley shared his excitement about joining the Delta Devils, saying, "Why Valley for me? I am Mississippi Made! I have always dreamt of being a head coach in the state of Mississippi. This is a family thing for me - we are stronger together. I believe that embracing change and working hard never fails."
For Buckley, this is a homecoming of sorts, as he grew up in Mississippi. His story is reminiscent of Michael Vick, who returned to his hometown to coach at Norfolk State University in Virginia. Buckley, a former Miami Dolphin, hails from Pascagoula, Mississippi and played college football at Florida State University. In 1991, he was recognized as the nation's top defensive back with the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award. During his time at FSU, he proved his skills as a defensive player with an impressive 21 interceptions.
After college, Buckley was drafted at No. 5 by the Green Bay Packers in the 1992 NFL Draft. He went on to win a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots in 2001. During his 14-year NFL career, he played for various teams including the Dolphins, Patriots, Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and New York Jets. And now, he is taking on a new challenge as the Football Coach at Mississippi Valley State.
During the announcement, MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr. expressed his excitement about having Buckley on board, saying, "It is a beautiful day to be at Mississippi Valley State University. We are fully behind our new football coach and his family. I am thrilled to be here as we look forward to an outstanding season. On behalf of the entire university, we are ready to stay in MOTION!"
This news comes on the heels of Shaw University's hiring of Lamar Manigo as their football program's new leader. It's clear that universities are recognizing the value and expertise that former NFL players bring to the table. And with coaches like Buckley and Manigo at the helm, it's safe to say that both Mississippi Valley State and Shaw University are in great hands.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
