Florida State Seminoles Assistant Coach Promoted to Head Coach Role, Ushering in New Era of Leadership and High Expectations for…read more…

Florida State Seminoles Assistant Coach Promoted to Head Coach Role, Ushering in New Era of Leadership and High Expectations for…read more…

Tallahassee, FL — July 10, 2025 — In a major move signaling both continuity and renewal, the Florida State Seminoles have officially promoted longtime assistant coach Marcus Delaney to head coach, following the departure of former head coach James Rhoades earlier this summer. The university made the announcement Wednesday morning at a press conference held at Doak Campbell Stadium, where university officials, student-athletes, and members of the media gathered for the highly anticipated news.

Delaney, who has spent the last seven seasons as the Seminoles’ defensive coordinator and assistant head coach, is regarded as one of the most respected minds within the program. Known for his leadership, strategic acumen, and ability to connect with players both on and off the field, Delaney’s promotion has been met with enthusiasm by players, alumni, and fans alike.

“This is a proud day for Florida State athletics,” said FSU Athletic Director Michael Alford. “Coach Delaney represents everything we stand for — dedication, excellence, and integrity. He’s earned the respect of this community through hard work and loyalty. We believe he is the right person to lead this team forward.”

Delaney, 44, expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. “Florida State is home to me,” he said during the press conference. “I’ve poured everything I have into this program, and I’m honored to continue that journey now as head coach. We have unfinished business, and I’m committed to building a championship-caliber team that reflects the heart and history of this great university.”

During his tenure as defensive coordinator, Delaney transformed the Seminoles’ defense into one of the top units in the ACC, with multiple players going on to successful careers in the NFL. His defensive philosophy—aggressive, fast, and disciplined—has become a staple of Florida State’s recent identity.

The promotion comes at a pivotal moment for the Seminoles, who have enjoyed a resurgence in national prominence over the last two seasons. With a strong recruiting class set to arrive this fall and several key veterans returning, expectations are high for Delaney to continue the momentum.

Players took to social media to express their support, with team captain and senior linebacker Jamal Waters posting, “Couldn’t be happier for Coach D. He’s been there for all of us. He deserves this.”

Recruiting analysts also noted that Delaney’s promotion provides stability for incoming players. “Keeping Coach Delaney ensures consistency in the culture and development these recruits were promised,” said ESPN analyst Todd McShay.

As the team prepares for fall camp, Delaney will begin assembling his staff, with reports indicating he may retain many members of the current coaching team while potentially bringing in new voices to bolster the offense.

The Seminoles open their 2025 season against LSU in a high-profile non-conference matchup, and all eyes will be on Delaney as he makes his head coaching debut.

For fans of the garnet and gold, the message is clear: a new era has begun at Florida State—one built on familiar foundations, but aiming higher than ever.