Former Tennessee Lineman Jumps From College to NFL Coaching With Falcons

LaTroy Lewis transitions from UConn defensive line coach to assistant defensive line coach with the Atlanta Falcons.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Former Tennessee defensive lineman LaTroy Lewis is making the jump from college to the NFL coaching ranks, accepting a position as an assistant defensive line coach with the Atlanta Falcons. Lewis had recently taken a job as the defensive line coach at UConn, but is now making the move to the professional level with the Falcons.

Why it matters

Lewis' move from the college ranks to the NFL is an impressive career progression, showcasing his coaching abilities and potential. As a former player himself, his experience and insights could be valuable assets for the Falcons' defensive line.

The details

Lewis spent five seasons playing for Tennessee from 2012 to 2016, racking up 77 total tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, and other defensive stats. After going undrafted in 2017, he had brief stints with the Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, and Tennessee Titans. He also played for the Houston Roughnecks in the XFL in 2020 before beginning his coaching career with various graduate assistant and analyst roles. Most recently, he was hired as the defensive line coach at UConn, but is now making the jump to the NFL with the Falcons.

  • Lewis played for Tennessee from 2012 to 2016.
  • He went undrafted in the 2017 NFL Draft.
  • He played for the Houston Roughnecks in the XFL in 2020.
  • He was hired as UConn's defensive line coach in early January 2026.
  • He is now joining the Atlanta Falcons as an assistant defensive line coach.

The players

LaTroy Lewis

A former defensive lineman for the University of Tennessee who is now making the jump from college to the NFL coaching ranks, accepting a position as an assistant defensive line coach with the Atlanta Falcons.

Jason Candle

The new head coach at UConn, who previously worked with LaTroy Lewis at Toledo in 2025.

Derek Dooley

The former head coach at Tennessee who originally recruited and coached LaTroy Lewis.

Butch Jones

The head coach at Tennessee who took over the program after LaTroy Lewis' freshman year.

Matt Zenitz

A CBS Sports reporter who broke the news of LaTroy Lewis' move to the Atlanta Falcons.

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What they’re saying

“God is Great! Let's Work!!!!!!!!!! #RiseUp”

— LaTroy Lewis (Twitter)

What’s next

Lewis will begin his new role as an assistant defensive line coach with the Atlanta Falcons, where he will look to make an immediate impact and continue his coaching development at the professional level.

The takeaway

LaTroy Lewis' transition from college player to college coach and now to the NFL coaching ranks showcases his passion for the game and his ability to progress quickly through the coaching ranks. His experience as a former player could prove valuable as he looks to help develop the Falcons' defensive line.