Marshall Faulk, a three-time NFL MVP and former Super Bowl champion, is reportedly set to leave his position as the running backs coach at the University of Colorado to take on a head coaching role at Southern University, an HBCU in Louisiana. The move marks another step in Faulk’s transition from player to coach, following similar careers of other NFL stars who have taken coaching positions at HBCUs. Faulk joined Deion Sanders’ staff in 2024, but after just one season, he is expected to return to his home state for his next career chapter.
Faulk, who played for the St. Louis Rams and the Indianapolis Colts, had a legendary career that included multiple Pro Bowl selections and two Super Bowl appearances. He won the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year award three consecutive times, from 1999 to 2001, and was the MVP of the 2000 season. His career was highlighted by his role in the Rams’ Super Bowl XXXIV victory. Now, with his career as a player behind him, Faulk is making a name for himself as a coach, joining a growing list of NFL stars who have taken head coaching positions at HBCUs.
Other notable NFL stars who have recently taken head coaching positions at HBCUs include Michael Vick, who is the head coach at Norfolk State, and DeSean Jackson, who is coaching at Delaware State. Both of them joined the coaching ranks without prior coaching experience, following in the footsteps of Faulk. This trend reflects a broader movement within college football to bring in former NFL players to lead programs, especially at HBCUs, where they bring valuable experience and a strong connection to the community.
Faulk’s departure from Colorado comes after the team experienced a regression in performance following the departure of Sanders’ son, Shedeur, and the departure of Travis Hunter, who was one of the standout players on the team. Despite this, the team managed to return to a more consistent performance in 2024, going 3-8 in the season. However, the running backs on the team have struggled, averaging just 5.12 yards per carry, which has been a concern for the coaching staff.
Faulk’s decision to return to Southern University, where he grew up and played as an athlete, is significant, as it demonstrates the potential for HBCUs to attract high-profile talent. His move could help elevate the profile of Southern University, which has historically faced challenges in securing top-tier talent and resources. Faulk’s coaching experience, combined with his personal connection to the school, could provide a much-needed boost to the program’s development and competitiveness in the coming seasons.