In February 2025, the Miami Hurricanes made a significant move by hiring Will Harris as their new secondary coach. This decision was met with enthusiasm, given Harris’s impressive track record in transforming defensive backfields at both collegiate and professional levels.SI+4SI+4Yardbarker+4
Harris’s coaching journey began in 2013 at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, where he served as the defensive backs coach. He continued to build his reputation with subsequent positions at Humboldt State University and Dixie State College, demonstrating a consistent ability to enhance secondary performances. His tenure at San Jose State University from 2016 to 2017 further solidified his status, as he mentored two All-Mountain West selections, cornerback Andrew Chachere and safety Maurice McKnight. Chachere’s first-team all-conference honors and national recognition for pass defenses highlighted Harris’s impact. Men’s Basketball ChampsSI+2Men’s Basketball Champs+2Men’s Basketball Champs+2
In 2018, Harris joined the University of Washington as the defensive backs coach. Over four seasons, he developed a secondary that led the nation in pass defense in 2021, allowing only 143.3 yards per game and conceding just six touchdowns. This remarkable performance earned two of his protégés, Kyler Gordon and Trent McDuffie, first-team All-Pac-12 honors and spots in the NFL Draft. Notably, McDuffie was selected in the first round by the Kansas City Chiefs. SI+1AP News+1SI+5Men’s Basketball Champs+5Men’s Basketball Champs+5
Harris’s success continued at Georgia Southern University in 2022, where, as defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach, he guided a young defense to 15 red zone stops, ranking second nationally. The team also recorded 11 interceptions and 65 pass breakups under his leadership. Men’s Basketball Champs+1Men’s Basketball Champs+1Men’s Basketball Champs+1Men’s Basketball Champs+1
In 2023, Harris took on the role of assistant secondary coach with the Los Angeles Chargers, gaining valuable experience in the NFL. The following year, he returned to college football as the secondary coach for the Florida Gators. In just one season, he transformed Florida’s secondary, increasing interceptions from three in 2023 to 14 in 2024. The defense also improved in yards per attempt, moving from 8.5 to 7.3, and achieved a four-game winning streak to end the season. Men’s Basketball Champs+6SI+6Sportskeeda+6SI+1Sportskeeda+1
Harris’s recruiting prowess was evident at Florida, where he played a pivotal role in assembling a strong 2025 class. His efforts brought in five-star cornerback Ben Hanks III, five-star safety Hylton Stubbs, four-star corner Onis Konanbanny, and four-star safety Lagonza Hayward. These additions were crucial in bolstering Florida’s defensive lineup. Sportskeeda+1SI+1SI+1Sportskeeda+1
Recognizing his achievements, the Miami Hurricanes secured Harris’s expertise in February 2025. His unique coaching methods, including allowing players to tackle him while he was in full pads, reflect his hands-on approach and commitment to developing a tough, resilient secondary. Harris’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Miami’s defense and enhance their competitiveness in the ACC.Yardbarker+1SI+1
Harris’s journey from a standout player at the University of Southern California to a sought-after defensive backs coach exemplifies his dedication and effectiveness. His ability to elevate secondary units, attract top talent, and implement successful defensive strategies positions him as a valuable asset to the Miami Hurricanes. As he takes on this new role, expectations are high for Harris to continue his legacy of developing elite defensive backs and contributing to Miami’s pursuit of excellence in collegiate football.