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Morgan State names former NFL running back Tyrone Wheatley as head football coach

Posted at 10:11 PM, Feb 07, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-08 08:56:24-05

BALTIMORE (WMAR) — Morgan State University announced the hiring of their new head football coach on Thursday.

Athletic Director, Edward Scott named Tyrone Whealtey as the Bears 22nd head coach in team history.

Wheatley joins Morgan State after having spent the last two years as the running backs coach for the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars. He also held the same position with the Buffalo Bills from 2013 through 2014.

In a statement, Scott shared his enthusiasm on the new hire;

Tyrone is an outstanding recruiter and understands the game of football at every level, both as a player and a coach. We are confident Tyrone can build broad support and engagement in our program while continuing to advance our football program in the classroom and on the playing field.

For his part, Wheatley says he's excited for his move to Baltimore;

"I consider it a privilege to lead the young men of Morgan State using football as a vehicle to implement a continuation of development, mentorship, and productivity beyond the field and when their playing days are over. I can't wait to become united with the city of Baltimore and become woven in the fabric of the community."

Wheatley is no stranger to Baltimore either. Ravens fans may remember him as the lead running back for the Oakland Raiders during the 2001 AFC Championship game in which the Ravens held him to seven yards on 12 rushing attempts. Baltimore ended up defeating Oakland 16-3 on their way to winning Super Bowl XXXV against the New York Giants, who Wheatley also played for from 1995 through 1998.

The University will officially introduce Wheatley as their head coach on February 12, at 11 a.m.