Weber State Football: The Rise of the Former Player-Turned-Coach
Weber State Wildcats football is seeing a familiar face return to Ogden, but this time on the sidelines. Head Coach Eric Kjar’s recent hiring of former WSU player Kam Garrett as a cornerbacks coach isn’t just a feel-good story; it’s a sign of a growing trend in college football – leveraging the experience and understanding of players who’ve recently navigated the modern game.
The “New Breed” of Coaches: From Field to Sideline
For decades, the coaching pipeline largely flowed from assistant roles to head coaching positions, often with limited recent playing experience at the highest levels. Now, we’re witnessing a surge of coaches who are only a few years removed from their playing days. Garrett’s appointment exemplifies this shift. He brings invaluable insight into the challenges and nuances faced by today’s student-athletes, something a coach solely relying on decades-old strategies might miss.
This trend isn’t limited to the FCS level. Look at the NFL: Sean McVay (Los Angeles Rams) and Kyle Shanahan (San Francisco 49ers) are relatively young head coaches who connect with players on a different level, fostering a more collaborative environment. A 2023 study by the NFL Players Association showed that players overwhelmingly prefer coaches who demonstrate empathy and understanding of their experiences.
Why This Matters: Adapting to the Evolving Football Landscape
The game is changing rapidly. The transfer portal, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, and increased emphasis on player well-being have fundamentally altered the college football ecosystem. Coaches who haven’t recently experienced these changes firsthand are at a disadvantage.
Garrett’s journey – from a successful run at Weber State to a season at BYU – provides him with a unique perspective. He understands the motivations of players considering the transfer portal, the complexities of NIL negotiations, and the pressures of balancing academics with athletic commitments. This understanding allows him to build stronger relationships with his players and provide more relevant guidance.
Did you know? The number of players entering the NCAA transfer portal has increased by over 60% in the last five years, highlighting the need for coaches to understand and navigate this new reality.
The Cornerback Position: A Specialized Need for Modern Coaching
The cornerbacks position, specifically, benefits greatly from a coach with recent playing experience. The demands on modern cornerbacks are incredibly complex – they need to be athletic, technically sound, and possess a high football IQ to handle increasingly sophisticated passing offenses.
Garrett’s own stats – 19 pass breakups and one interception over his collegiate career – demonstrate his understanding of the position. His ability to analyze route concepts, anticipate throws, and effectively cover receivers will be invaluable to his players. He’s not just teaching technique; he’s sharing insights gleaned from facing top-tier competition.
Beyond Weber State: A National Trend
Weber State isn’t alone in embracing this coaching philosophy. Programs across the country are actively seeking out former players to join their staffs. The University of Oregon, for example, has seen success with former players transitioning into coaching roles, contributing to their consistently strong defensive performance. This isn’t a coincidence; it’s a deliberate strategy to stay ahead of the curve.
Pro Tip: When evaluating coaching candidates, athletic directors are increasingly prioritizing candidates who can demonstrate strong communication skills, emotional intelligence, and a genuine commitment to player development.
FAQ
Q: Is playing experience the most important factor in becoming a successful coach?
A: No, but it’s becoming increasingly valuable. Strong leadership, communication skills, and a deep understanding of the game are still essential.
Q: How does the transfer portal impact coaching strategies?
A: Coaches need to be proactive in building relationships with players and creating a positive team culture to retain talent and attract transfers.
Q: What role does NIL play in player-coach relationships?
A: Coaches need to provide guidance and support to players navigating NIL opportunities, ensuring they make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals.
Q: Will we see more former players becoming coaches in the future?
A: Absolutely. The benefits are clear, and the trend is likely to continue as the game evolves.
Want to learn more about the Weber State Wildcats football program? Visit the official website. Share your thoughts on this coaching trend in the comments below!
