Memphis, December 15, 2025
The University of Memphis football program has officially appointed Charles Huff as its new head coach, following the departure of Ryan Silverfield. With a successful background at Southern Miss and Marshall, Huff is expected to revitalize the program. Alongside him, Lee Marks joins as the running backs coach, enhancing the coaching staff. Additionally, University of Tennessee players Jermod McCoy and Arion Carter have declared for the NFL Draft, marking significant developments in local sports.
Memphis, Tennessee โ December 15, 2025
Memphis Football Welcomes New Head Coach Charles Huff
The University of Memphis has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its football program with the appointment of Charles Huff as the new head coach. His predecessor, Ryan Silverfield, recently left to join the University of Arkansas, and the search for a leader who can reinvigorate the team seemed paramount. Huff, 42, comes with a commendable track record including a 7-5 season at Southern Miss and a seasoned 32-20 record over four years at Marshall. Athletic director Ed Scott has highlighted Huff’s leadership skills and experience in uplifting struggling programs, noting he is ideally suited for the job at Memphis. As the team prepares for the Gasparilla Bowl against NC State on December 19, anticipation is building among fans and stakeholders alike.
Huff has expressed his enthusiasm for the role and a strong commitment to the success of his players and the program as a whole. His leadership is expected to inspire a new era for Memphis football, focusing on teamwork and competitive resilience as they prepare for upcoming challenges on the field.
Assistant Coaching Staff Updates
Alongside the coaching change, Memphis has also secured new talent for its assistant coaching staff. Lee Marks, who previously held the position of assistant head coach and running backs coach at Washington, has joined the Memphis program. Marks played a vital role in Washington’s impressive 14-1 record and their appearance in the CFP National Championship. His reputation as one of the best running backs coaches in the nation, coupled with his aptitude for building strong relationships with players, aligns with Memphisโ objective of fostering a high-performing athletic environment.
University of Tennessee Players Declare for NFL Draft
In other significant developments, several players from the University of Tennessee have declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, marking a pivotal moment in their athletic careers. Cornerback Jermod McCoy announced his decision on December 10, concluding his time at Tennessee after missing the 2025 season due to injury. McCoy, who received first-team All-SEC honors and was recognized as a second-team All-American in 2024, is expected to make an impact at the professional level.
Linebacker Arion Carter also declared for the NFL Draft while opting out of the Music City Bowl. Carter’s statistics reflect his potential, having recorded 76 tackles, six tackles-for-loss, and 1.5 sacks during the 2025 season. He is projected to be chosen in the early or mid-rounds, demonstrating the high level of talent emerging from Tennessee’s football programs.
Memphis Assistant Coaches’ Contract Details Revealed
As part of the recent coaching updates, details regarding the contracts of Memphis assistant coaches have emerged. Head coach Kellie Harper, who is also making significant strides within the athletic department, received a $35,000 signing bonus along with a guaranteed $4.5 million over a five-year contract. Harper’s base salary is set at $300,000 per annum, with additional non-salary benefits ranging from $550,000 to $650,000 annually. These financial incentives are further complemented by performance-related bonuses aimed at rewarding success on multiple levels, including NCAA tournament appearances and academic performance based on team standards.
Former HBCU Head Coach Joins Memphis Basketball Staff
In a move to strengthen the menโs basketball program, former HBCU head coach Mike Davis has joined the coaching staff at Memphis. With over 35 years of experience, including 24 years at the head coach level, Davis brings a wealth of knowledge and a track record of postseason success. The addition of Davis is seen as a significant enhancement to head coach Penny Hardaway’s staff, reinforcing the teamโs prospects and competing at a high level in upcoming seasons.
Conclusion
The recent changes within the athletic programs at the University of Memphis highlight a dynamic shift aimed at fostering growth and success in both football and basketball. The hiring of Charles Huff and the strategic additions of talented coaches signify a commitment to excellence. As Memphis continues to bolster its programs with skilled leadership, local fans are encouraged to support their teams and witness the evolution of Memphis athletics. In a broader sense, these developments reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of our regionโwhere innovation in leadership sets the stage for future achievements and community pride.
FAQ
Who is Charles Huff?
Charles Huff is the newly appointed head coach of the Memphis football program. He previously served as the head coach at Southern Miss and Marshall, achieving notable success at both institutions.
What is Lee Marks’ coaching background?
Lee Marks has been added to the Memphis football coaching staff as the running backs coach. He previously served as the assistant head coach and running backs coach at Washington, contributing to the team’s 14-1 record and a berth in the CFP National Championship.
Which University of Tennessee players declared for the NFL Draft?
Cornerback Jermod McCoy and linebacker Arion Carter have declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. McCoy missed the 2025 season due to injury, while Carter opted out of the Music City Bowl to focus on the draft.
What are the contract details for Memphis assistant coaches?
Head coach Kellie Harper received a $35,000 signing bonus and is guaranteed $4.5 million over a five-year deal. Her base salary is $300,000 per year, with additional non-salary portions ranging from $550,000 to $650,000 annually. Performance-related bonuses include $25,000 for NCAA tournament appearances, $25,000 for Coach of the Year honors, and $25,000 for academic performance based on the team’s multi-year APR rate.
Who is Mike Davis?
Mike Davis is a former HBCU head coach with over 35 years of coaching experience, including 24 years as a head coach with 14 postseason trips. He has joined the Memphis men’s basketball coaching staff, bringing a winning mentality and proven leadership to the program.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Memphis Football Head Coach | Charles Huff appointed as head coach, replacing Ryan Silverfield. |
| Assistant Coaching Staff Updates | Lee Marks added as running backs coach; contract details for assistant coaches revealed. |
| University of Tennessee Players Declare for NFL Draft | Jermod McCoy and Arion Carter declare for the 2026 NFL Draft. |
| Former HBCU Head Coach Joins Memphis Basketball Staff | Mike Davis joins Memphis men’s basketball coaching staff, bringing extensive experience. |
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