Categories: College University Athletics

University of Central Florida Football Welcomes New Defensive Backs Coach

The UCF Football team honing their skills during a practice session.

News Summary

The University of Central Florida football team has announced Brandon Harris as the new defensive backs coach. A former NFL player, Harris brings extensive coaching experience from Florida Atlantic University, where he excelled as co-defensive coordinator. His addition marks a significant enhancement in UCF’s coaching staff, promising an exciting season ahead filled with strategic defensive plays and a notable legacy from a family rooted in football coaching. Fans are eager to see how his arrival will impact the team’s performance this upcoming season.

Exciting Times for UCF Football with Brandon Harris as Defensive Backs Coach

Orlando, Florida – The University of Central Florida (UCF) football team is adding a touch of excitement with recent news of a fresh face joining its coaching staff. Scott Frost, the head coach, has appointed Brandon Harris as the new defensive backs coach, and fans are buzzing! Harris, a former second-round NFL draft pick, is bringing his wealth of experience to the Knights’ sidelines.

A Stellar Football Background

Brandon Harris isn’t a name you casually throw around. Selected by the Houston Texans in the 2011 NFL Draft, he’s made waves in the football community, particularly in Florida. Over the last three seasons, Harris honed his coaching skills at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), where he took on the roles of co-defensive coordinator and cornerbacks coach.

During his time at FAU, the defensive squad had some impressive stats, achieving 11 interceptions and even scoring two defensive touchdowns in 2024 alone. The team’s defensive prowess shone brightly, earning a spot among the top 40 in the nation for red zone defense. They also held seven teams to 25 points or fewer—talk about impressive!

Recognizing Lasting Achievements

Under Harris’ guidance, the FAU players were on fire! CJ Heard, a true freshman defensive back, was named to the Third Team All-American Athletic Conference (AAC) while leading the team in tackles with a whopping 82. His teammate, Jarron Morris, stepped up to earn all-conference honors in 2023, showcasing his talents with whopping stats in tackles for a loss, pass breakups, interceptions, and forced fumbles. Not to forget, during Harris’ tenure, FAU was recognized for grabbing third place nationally for falling victim to the fewest penalties—something every coach dreams about!

Impressive Playing History

Before stepping into the coaching realm, Harris made a name for himself as a player. He played for the University of Miami, where he collected accolades like being named a Phil Steele Second Team All-American and First Team All-ACC in 2009. His exceptional talent didn’t go unnoticed, as he was a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award in 2009 and 2010. During his senior year, he led the nation in pass breakups and other noteworthy defensive metrics. Harris’ journey continued as he played six seasons in the NFL and capped off his professional career with the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League (CFL), securing a Grey Cup Championship in 2017!

A Family Legacy Strives Ahead

Coaching seems to run in the family for Brandon Harris too. He is the younger brother of Tim Harris Jr., who previously served as an assistant coach at UCF. Additionally, his father, Tim Harris Sr., has a long-standing reputation as a high school coach in Miami. Clearly, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!

What’s Next?

As Harris steps onto the UCF campus, he expressed enthusiasm about the vibrant football culture and the chance to collaborate with talented players and coaches. His arrival marks him as the eighth assistant coach in Scott Frost’s lineup for this offseason, joining a stellar team that includes talents like Steve Cooper, the offensive coordinator, and Alex Grinch, the defensive coordinator.

With Brandon Harris in the fold, UCF football is set to welcome an era of exciting plays and stellar defensive maneuvers. The university is undoubtedly buzzing with anticipation as fans eagerly await the upcoming season!