Former SEC WR Returns to Coach in his Home State

Columbia High School’s hiring of Coates became official last night after approval by the Huntsville City Board of Education. The former Auburn wide receiver comes into an extremely situation, with Columbia currently holding a 91-game losing streak. Yes, 91 games.

Coates enjoyed plenty of success at Auburn from 2011 to 2014, which included an SEC Championship and an appearance in the BCS National Championship game. Personally, he totaled 83 receptions for 1,757 yards and 13 touchdowns, while twice leading the SEC in yards per reception. After Auburn, he was drafted in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, before also seeing time with Cleveland, Houston and Kansas City. He finished his NFL career with 29 receptions for 528 yards and two touchdowns. Coates then had a brief stint in the XFL and CFL.

Turning his attention to coaching, he began his career at Jensen Beach High School in Florida, then spent one season at Division II Ohio Northern and most recently one season at Division II Virginia-Wise. Most of his coaching experience has been at the wide receiver position.

Many new coaches come into difficult situations, but starting a job during a 91-game losing streak is a different level of difficulty. It is safe to say that Coates is not afraid of challenges.