Will Ray Lewis be back on a football sideline soon?
Ray Lewis, the legendary Pro Football Hall of Famer, is reportedly in the running to become the next head coach at Florida Atlantic University, according to an ESPN report released on Wednesday. This comes after FAU parted ways with Tom Herman, who lasted less than two seasons in the role.
The seriousness of Lewis’s candidacy remains uncertain, yet ESPN has drawn comparisons to Deion Sanders’ coaching journey. Sanders, another Hall of Famer, transitioned from high school coaching in Texas to leading Jackson State University, where he achieved a notable record of 27 wins and 6 losses over three seasons.
While Lewis lacks formal coaching experience, Sanders’s success may suggest that a former player can make a significant impact on a college program. After leaving Jackson State, Sanders took over at the University of Colorado, where he faced challenges initially but has turned the team into a contender this season, showcasing the potential for rapid improvement.
Florida Atlantic has struggled since Lane Kiffin’s departure after the 2019 season, compiling a disappointing record of 21 wins and 34 losses over the past five years. In contrast, Kiffin led the team to a successful 27-13 record during his three-year tenure. The search for a new head coach presents an opportunity for FAU to revitalize its football program, and the addition of a high-profile figure like Lewis could be the spark needed for a turnaround.
