Central State, an HCU in Wilberforce, Ohio, recently announced the hiring of a former Super Bowl MVP, Santonio Holmes, to their coaching staff ahead of the 2025-26 season as a receiver coach. Can the former first-round NFL Draft pick help the struggling Division II Marauders?
Santonio Holmes Makes Bold Coaching Move, Joins HBCU Central State
Santonio Holmes, who joins newly appointed Head Coach Tony Carter as a wide receiver coach, is taking on his first job in both college football and coaching, returning to the NCAA after his playing days with Ohio State.
HUGE hire for the Central State Marauders!
Super Bowl MVP & NFL veteran Santonio Holmes is joining the staff to lead our wide receivers!
Another elite addition by HC Tony Carter, bringing championship experience and WR excellence to the Yard. @FootballScoop @steelers @nyjets @nfl pic.twitter.com/XkT2K2iIwj— Central State Marauders Football
(@GoMaraudersFB) May 12, 2025
In the announcement on their website, Central State detailed the historic career of former Pittsburgh Steeler Santonio Holmes ahead of his coaching gig with the Maraders program.
“Central State University is excited to welcome Santonio Holmes to Head Coach Tony Carter’s staff as the Wide Receivers Coach for the Marauders football program,” the statement reads.
“A former Super Bowl MVP and first-round NFL Draft pick, Holmes brings elite-level playing experience and a deep understanding of the wide receiver position to the Marauders.” Central State explained, also detailing his prior experience in college football.
“At Ohio State, Holmes redshirted during the Buckeyes’ 2002 National Championship season and went on to become one of the most prolific receivers in school history. He finished his collegiate career with 140 receptions for 2,295 yards and 25 touchdowns, ranking among the program’s all-time leaders in multiple categories.”
“Holmes is committed to developing student-athletes both on and off the field, drawing from his journey as a scholar-athlete, national champion, and professional to inspire the next generation of players,” the university concluded.
In 2024, Central State went 1-9 in their 2024 season, but they hope the appointments of former NFL experienced legends in both Tony Carter and Santonio Holmes will get their program back on track.
Central State Names NFL Veteran Tony Carter As New Head Coach
Central State also added another NFL veteran to their coaching staff, with former NFL defensive back Tony Carter joining the program as its head coach.
“In Coach TC, we have found a leader who has demonstrated time and again the ability to inspire, cultivate discipline, and instill a mindset to achieve greatness,” claimed Athletic Director Kevicicia Brown.
During his presentation to the university, Carter detailed his plans for the program, citing player development as the most important part of his job.
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“We are going to meet kids where they are and pour into their journey — whether they need academic support or personal development, we are committed to making them better.”
“I am confident that under Carter’s leadership, our football players will succeed on the field, in the classroom, and in society, becoming leaders in the community,” The President of the University concluded, as Central State gear up to prepare for the 2025/26 season with a new star studded coaching lineup.
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