Hampton University head football coach Van Malone has officially been introduced as the next leader of the Pirates football program, according to an announcement released by the university through its athletics department earlier this week. The hire marks a pivotal moment for the historic HBCU as it looks to reset following a challenging 2025 season and recommit to long-term success at the Division I FCS level. The move was later covered by local media as Malone was formally introduced to Pirate Nation.
Hampton finished the 2025 campaign with a 2–10 overall record and struggled in Coastal Athletic Association play, prompting a leadership change as the program continues to navigate one of the most demanding conferences in FCS football. University leadership emphasized that the decision to bring in Malone was rooted in culture-building, player development, and alignment with the institution’s broader mission at Hampton University.
Hampton University Head Football Coach Van Malone Brings Elite Experience
Van Malone arrives at Hampton with more than two decades of coaching experience across the college football landscape. Most recently, he spent seven seasons at Kansas State University as assistant head coach and defensive passing game coordinator, helping guide the Wildcats to consistent bowl appearances and national relevance. His hiring followed Hampton’s national coaching search and was publicly introduced after being reported by 13News Now.
Before Kansas State, Malone held coaching roles at SMU, Oklahoma State, Tulsa, North Texas, Western Michigan, Mississippi State, and North Dakota State. His résumé reflects extensive experience in recruiting, defensive strategy, and program building — credentials Hampton highlighted when announcing his appointment.
As a former player, Malone starred at the University of Texas before playing professionally in the NFL with the Detroit Lions, where he earned recognition as a standout special teams contributor. That blend of NFL playing experience and Power Five coaching pedigree positions Hampton University head football coach Van Malone as a bridge between elite football standards and HBCU tradition.
Why This Hire Matters for Hampton Football
Hampton’s football program carries a storied legacy that includes multiple Black College National Championships and decades of success prior to its transition to Division I competition. That history remains central to the university’s vision as it looks to stabilize and elevate the program under Malone’s leadership, continuing a narrative long associated with Hampton University.
Malone emphasized culture, accountability, and community during his introductory remarks, outlining a vision centered on developing student-athletes on and off the field while building a competitive identity within the CAA.
Looking Ahead for the Pirates
As Hampton prepares for the 2026 season, attention will turn toward assembling a coaching staff, strengthening recruiting pipelines, and establishing consistency on the field. Malone inherits a young roster with potential but one that will require structure and discipline to compete weekly at the FCS level.
For Pirate Nation, the hiring of Hampton University head football coach Van Malone represents belief in a long-term reset grounded in experience and leadership as Hampton football turns the page toward its next chapter.
