Scott Frost Needs To Hire Another New Defensive Backs Coach

UCF Knights football coach Scott Frost is in search of a new defensive backs coach once again this offseason.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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UCF defensive backs coach Will Johnson was hired away by the Minnesota Vikings, leaving a position on UCF's coaching staff open once again. Johnson had just joined the Knights in December 2025 after the departure of Brandon Harris, who left for a job at Florida.

Why it matters

This is the second time in the past year that UCF has had to replace its defensive backs coach, which could disrupt continuity in the secondary and recruiting efforts for the Knights' 2026 class.

The details

Johnson's tenure at UCF was short-lived, as he was hired by the Vikings less than two months after joining the Knights. During his brief time at UCF, Johnson helped bring in six defensive backs through the transfer portal. His previous coaching experience was at North Dakota State, where he led a secondary that ranked highly in the FCS.

  • On Dec. 30, 2025, UCF announced the hiring of Will Johnson as its new defensive backs coach.
  • On Feb. 24, 2026, Johnson was reported to be joining the Minnesota Vikings' coaching staff.

The players

Scott Frost

The head football coach of the UCF Knights.

Will Johnson

The former defensive backs coach for the UCF Knights, who was hired away by the Minnesota Vikings.

Brandon Harris

The previous defensive backs coach for the UCF Knights, who left to take a job at the University of Florida.

Alex Grinch

The defensive coordinator for the UCF Knights, who worked with Will Johnson to bring in the secondary of UCF's 2026 transfer portal class.

Jaquise Alexander

A cornerback at North Dakota State who played under Will Johnson, tallying six pass breakups in the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“The #Vikings are set to hire UCF defensive backs coach Will Johnson as a member of their defensive staff, sources tell @CBSSports.”

— Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports Reporter (CBS Sports)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.