Scott Cochran, a former Georgia assistant and strength and conditioning coach at Alabama, is back coaching college football.
The University of West Alabama announced Cochran as the school’s head coach on Monday. The school is a Division II program located in Livingston, Ala., and brings Cochran back into collegiate coaching.
He had stepped away from the game of football following the completion of Georgia’s 2023 season.
“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the University of West Alabama football program as head coach,” Cochran said in a statement put out by the school. “UWA has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, and I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated staff, and passionate community to continue that legacy. Together, we will strive for greatness and make our supporters proud.
“My own personal struggles have given me a unique perspective that allows me to expertly develop players and prepare them to go to the next level. I get to know players better than they know themselves, and I feel that I have something to give back through head coaching. This is more than just a job for me; it’s a calling to help young men grow both on and off the field.”
Cochran worked as the strength and conditioning coach at Alabama from 2007 through the 2019 season, helping Nick Saban build up the Alabama football program into the dynasty it became.
Cochran then joined Kirby Smart’s staff prior to the 2020 season as the special teams coordinator, an onfield coaching role.
Cochran, who has been open about his history of addiction, stepped away from the team prior to the start of the 2021 season. Cochran moved into an analyst role but remained part of the GEorgia program until he stepped away in February of 2024.
“Scott Cochran’s passion for the game, along with his ability to connect with players and his commitment to developing student-athletes as individuals, all align with the values of our program,” West Alabama athletic director Brett Gilliland said in a statement. “We are confident that his guidance will allow UWA Football to continue to foster a winning culture both on and off the field. We are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our team and our community.”
Cochran will be formally introduced as the head coach at a press conference on Friday. He was replaced on Georgia’s staff by Kirk Benedict.
The Bulldogs went 11-3 this past season, losing in the College Football Playoff to Notre Dame.
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