HBCU football program names ex-NFL player and FCS assistant new head coach

Central State has a new football coach just in time for spring practice.

He is a former NFL player and FCS assistant coach. Tony Carter, a star defensive back at Florida State before playing in the NFL and becoming a college and professional coach, is the next leader for the Marauders.

“I am incredibly excited and honored to join the Central State University Marauders as the head football coach,” Carter said in a statement. “This program has a rich history of greatness, and I am committed to bringing that tradition back to life. My goal is to build strong relationships with our proud alumni, passionate fan base, and
the entire CSU community.”

Athletic Director Kevicia Brown welcomed Carter, noting his commitment to expanding CSU’s community presence and his passion for football in Ohio.

“Coach Carter brings a wealth of experience, not only as a former NFL player but also as a coach with experience at the NFL, XFL, and collegiate levels,” Brown said in a statement. “As both a leader and a person, he embodies the core values that align with our program and university.”

Carter’s football career spans over a decade. He began as a standout cornerback at Florida State University, where he was a four-year starter, was named an All-American, and earned multiple All-ACC honors. He went on to play in the NFL for eight seasons with teams, including the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, and New Orleans Saints.

Following his playing career, Carter transitioned into coaching, serving in roles such as defensive assistant and interim defensive backs coach with the Detroit Lions, cornerbacks coach at Jacksonville University and defensive coordinator for the XFL’s Orlando Guardians.

Most recently Carter served as the cornerbacks coach at Southeastern University.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tony Carter as the new head football coach,”
said CSU President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti. “We believe in his vision for the team and are confident that he will inspire our student-athletes to excel both on and off the field. This is an exciting new chapter for Marauder football, and we look forward to the success that lies ahead under his leadership.”

Carter will be formally introduced as head coach on Thursday, the university said.