Former South Carolina Linebacker Lands NFL Coaching Job

Rod Wilson to be the new inside linebackers coach for the Arizona Cardinals

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Rod Wilson, a former South Carolina Gamecock football player and assistant coach, has been hired as the new inside linebackers coach for the Arizona Cardinals. Wilson spent the last four years and seven of the last nine in various coaching roles with the Kansas City Chiefs, winning three Super Bowl rings.

Why it matters

This move represents an opportunity for Wilson to take the next step in his coaching career, joining the staff of a new NFL head coach in Mike LaFleur. Wilson's experience as both a player and coach at the collegiate and professional levels should provide valuable insight to the Cardinals' linebacker corps.

The details

Wilson was a former starter for the South Carolina defense and also spent some time coaching with his alma mater. He transitioned from offense to defense during his playing days, becoming a team captain and earning All-SEC recognition. After a six-year NFL playing career, Wilson got into coaching, with stints at Charleston Southern and South Carolina before joining the Chiefs' staff.

  • Wilson spent the last four years and seven of the last nine in various coaching roles with the Kansas City Chiefs.
  • In 2020, Wilson coached linebackers at South Carolina under head coach Will Muschamp and defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson.

The players

Rod Wilson

A former South Carolina Gamecock football player and assistant coach who has been hired as the new inside linebackers coach for the Arizona Cardinals.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.

Lou Holtz

The former head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, under whom Wilson started his playing career.

Will Muschamp

The former head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, under whom Wilson coached linebackers in 2020.

Travaris Robinson

The former defensive coordinator of the South Carolina Gamecocks, under whom Wilson coached linebackers in 2020.

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What’s next

Wilson will look to make an immediate impact on the Arizona Cardinals' linebacker corps as he joins the staff of new head coach Mike LaFleur.

The takeaway

Rod Wilson's journey from a standout player at South Carolina to a successful NFL coaching career highlights the value of developing talent from within and providing opportunities for former players to transition into coaching roles.