NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tennessee State University (TSU) announced the appointment of its new head football coach Sunday, a former NFL star known for his exceptional coaching reputation…

Tennessee State University (TSU) has ushered in a new era for its football program by appointing Reggie Barlow as the 23rd head coach. This announcement comes on the heels of former head coach Eddie George’s departure to Bowling Green State University earlier this month.

Reggie Barlow’s Football Journey

Reggie Barlow’s association with football is both extensive and distinguished. As a player, Barlow showcased his talents as a wide receiver and return specialist in the NFL, notably contributing to the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Oakland Raiders. His on-field prowess was evident, making him a valuable asset to his teams during his professional career.

Transition to Coaching

Following his playing days, Barlow seamlessly transitioned into coaching, bringing his firsthand experience and insights to the sidelines. He began his coaching career at Alabama State University, where he served as the quarterbacks coach in 2005. His leadership qualities and understanding of the game quickly elevated him to the position of head coach in 2007. During his tenure at Alabama State, Barlow amassed an overall record of 49–42 over eight seasons, leading the Hornets to multiple winning seasons and a Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Eastern Divisional title in 2010.

In 2016, Barlow took the helm at Virginia State University. His impact was immediate and profound, guiding the Trojans to a historic 10-0 undefeated season in 2017 and securing the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championship. Under his guidance, Virginia State consistently performed at a high level, reflecting Barlow’s ability to cultivate a winning culture.

Experience with the XFL

Expanding his coaching repertoire, Barlow ventured into professional coaching with the XFL. He was appointed as the head coach of the DC Defenders, where he further demonstrated his coaching acumen by leading the team to a commendable 9-1 record and earning the 2023 XFL Head Coach of the Year award.

Vision for Tennessee State University

Barlow’s appointment at TSU is met with optimism and high expectations. His diverse coaching background, spanning collegiate and professional levels, positions him uniquely to lead the Tigers. Barlow expressed enthusiasm about returning to the collegiate ranks, particularly at an institution with TSU’s rich history and tradition. He emphasized his commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field, aiming to instill values of discipline, perseverance, and excellence.

Building on the Foundation

Eddie George’s tenure at TSU laid a solid foundation for the football program. Under George’s leadership, the Tigerseperienced significant