Evan Cooper Joins Florida State as Safeties Coach
Florida State University has announced the hiring of Evan Cooper as the football program’s safeties coach. Cooper brings over a decade of coaching experience to the Seminoles, having worked in various roles at Nebraska, Baylor, Temple, and in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers.
Cooper expressed his excitement about joining the Florida State football program, stating, “FSU has an elite history among the best programs in college football, and I’m looking forward to working with Coach Norvell and the rest of the staff.”
At Nebraska, Cooper served as the defensive passing game coordinator and secondary coach, helping the team produce four All-Big Ten defensive backs. The Huskers’ defense ranked among the top 15 in the country in passing efficiency defense and total defense.
Cooper’s experience in the NFL includes a stint as the cornerbacks coach and director of player evaluation for the Carolina Panthers. In 2021, the Panthers had the NFL’s No. 2 total defense, allowing 305.9 yards per game.
Florida State head coach Mike Norvell welcomed Cooper to the Seminoles’ coaching staff, saying, “It’s great to have another Dade County native back working in his home state. Our safeties will benefit from his experience and expertise, and he will be a tremendous collaborator with Tony White, Patrick Surtain, and the rest of our defensive staff.”
Cooper joins a coaching staff that includes former Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White and defensive line coach Terrance Knighton. The Seminoles are looking to rebuild their defense, and Cooper’s experience and expertise are expected to be valuable assets in achieving that goal.
Cooper’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of developing strong relationships with players and helping them reach their full potential. He is known for his attention to detail and his ability to adapt his coaching style to fit the needs of his players.
With Cooper on board, the Seminoles are looking to make a strong push in the ACC and return to their winning ways.
