Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) recently named Terrell Buckley as the 19th head football coach of the Delta Devils.
Former NFL Pro Bowl cornerback Buckley, a native of Pascagoula, Mississippi, established himself as one of the sport’s most accomplished players after finishing his collegiate career with an incredible 21 interceptions.
The 50-year-old became one of the most captivating defensive backs in college football history while playing for Florida State University. In 1991, he was named the nation’s best defensive back and received the coveted Jim Thorpe Award, according to a statement from MVSU.
“Why Valley for me? I am Mississippi Made! I have dreamed of being a head coach in the state of Mississippi!” Buckley said in the statement. “This is a family thing. We are stronger together. Embracing change and hard work, never ever fails.”
Buckley had a 14-year NFL career, playing for the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and New York Jets after being selected by the Green Bay Packers with the fifth overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft. During his time with the Patriots, he won Super Bowl XXXVI, capping his professional career.
Becoming a collegiate coach, Buckley brought the same determination and knowledge to the field. His coaching career has taken him to Florida State, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss, among other educational institutions. He most recently served as head coach of the Orlando Guardians in the XFL, where he was praised for his leadership and ability to develop young players.
MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr. stated, “We are here to support our new football coach and his family 1000 percent. I am just excited to be here today as we look forward to an outstanding season. On behalf of our entire University family, we are going to stay in MOTION!”
Buckley takes over a program with a rich history that includes turning out notable alumni like Jerry Rice, an outstanding wide receiver, and Deacon Jones, an NFL Hall of Famer.
With his appointment, Delta Devils football enters a new era that is based on excellence, discipline, and a renewed emphasis on attracting elite players from both inside and outside of Mississippi, according to the institution.