Memphis Hires Charles Huff as New Football Coach

Athletic Director Ed Scott discusses the significance of the hire beyond the field.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:33am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors, with blurred, energetic brushstrokes capturing the intensity and emotion of a college football game.The hiring of Charles Huff as Memphis' new head football coach represents a significant milestone for diversity and representation in the sport.Memphis Today

Memphis has hired Charles Huff as its new football coach, a move that goes beyond just on-field performance. Athletic director Ed Scott spoke about the pressure and responsibility that comes with this high-profile hire, saying "I carry that, I bear that cross."

Why it matters

Huff's hiring is seen as an important step for representation and diversity in college football coaching, as he is one of the few Black head coaches at the Division I level. The Memphis program also faces high expectations to improve after recent struggles.

The details

Charles Huff, who is Black, was previously an assistant coach at several major programs before getting his first head coaching job at Memphis. Athletic director Ed Scott emphasized the significance of the hire, noting the responsibility that comes with being one of the few minority head coaches in the sport.

  • Huff was introduced as Memphis' new head football coach on April 9, 2026.

The players

Charles Huff

The new head football coach at the University of Memphis.

Ed Scott

The athletic director at the University of Memphis who hired Charles Huff as the new head football coach.

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What they’re saying

“I carry that, I bear that cross”

— Ed Scott, Athletic Director, University of Memphis

The takeaway

Huff's hiring represents an important step forward for diversity and representation in college football coaching, as he becomes one of the few Black head coaches at the Division I level. The Memphis program will be closely watched as it looks to improve under Huff's leadership.