Herm Edwards Appointed Director of Player Development at Arizona State
Former Arizona State head football coach Herm Edwards has returned to the Sun Devils program, accepting an appointment as the Director of Player Development. The news marks a surprising yet potentially significant development in the ongoing rebuilding efforts of the Arizona State football team. Edwards’s new role will focus on player mentorship, academic support, and career guidance, leveraging his extensive coaching experience and industry connections to assist athletes during their time in Tempe and beyond.
Edwards’s previous tenure as head coach of the Sun Devils was a mixed bag of successes and controversies. While he led the team to consecutive winning seasons and bowl appearances in his first two campaigns, his time at ASU was ultimately defined by NCAA investigations and sanctions. Despite securing notable victories against ranked opponents, including an upset victory over No. 6 Oregon in 2019 and consecutive road wins against ranked Michigan State and Cal, off-field issues eventually led to his termination following the 2022 season.
The appointment of Edwards as Director of Player Development, therefore, represents a calculated risk and a potential opportunity for both parties involved. For Arizona State, it signals a commitment to providing comprehensive support to its student-athletes, recognizing the value of mentorship and career development beyond solely on-field performance. Edwards’s experience in managing and navigating the challenges inherent in high-level NCAA athletics could prove invaluable in helping to foster a positive and supportive environment for young athletes.
On the other hand, Edwards’s return offers a chance at professional redemption. Despite the controversies that marred his head coaching tenure, it is undeniable that he possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise in coaching and player development. His transition to a non-coaching position allows him the opportunity to focus solely on shaping the personal and professional lives of the young athletes under his guidance.
While the appointment may stir mixed reactions among some segments of the fan base, the university’s decision appears to reflect a broader strategy focused on enhancing the overall well-being and development of its student-athletes. Edwards’s experience in handling high-pressure situations and mediating complex challenges suggests that he may be uniquely positioned to assist current players in navigating their academic and professional paths. His new role emphasizes Arizona State’s commitment to providing holistic support to its football players, ensuring that they are not only successful on the field but also equipped for future success off the field. The long-term impact of this decision remains to be seen, but it represents a potentially meaningful step towards fostering a more comprehensive and supportive approach to student-athlete development.
