Auburn University has appointed DeMarcus Van Dyke as the new cornerbacks coach for its football team. This announcement, made by head coach Alex Golesh, marks a significant step in enhancing the coaching staff and strengthening the team’s defense. Golesh expressed enthusiasm about Van Dyke’s hiring, stating, “We are thrilled to bring Coach DVD to Auburn. He has an elite ability to build genuine relationships with his players and develop them at the highest level.”
Van Dyke joins Auburn after two successful seasons at the University of South Florida (USF), where he served as the cornerbacks coach. His tenure at USF was notable for contributing to a significant improvement in the team’s defensive performance. The Bulls achieved 16 wins during his time, and in 2025, they ranked seventh nationally in turnovers gained. Under Van Dyke’s guidance, the Bulls led the American Athletic Conference (AAC) with 14 interceptions, tying for the most in a season since 2017. His coaching helped cornerback DeShawn Rucker earn First Team All-AAC honors.
Experience and Background
Before his role at USF, Van Dyke was the cornerbacks coach at Florida International University (FIU) in 2023. He also had a significant impact at his alma mater, the University of Miami, where he held various coaching positions from 2018 to 2022, including defensive quality control analyst and recruiting roles.
Van Dyke’s coaching career began in 2017 as the cornerbacks coach at ASA College. He quickly advanced through the ranks due to his effective coaching style and ability to connect with players. In December 2024, he was recognized by the American Football Coaches Association as one of the “35 Under 35,” highlighting his potential as a rising star in the coaching community.
A dual-sport athlete at the University of Miami, Van Dyke competed in both football and track. He played 51 games for the Hurricanes from 2007 to 2010, achieving 80 tackles, 10 passes defended, three interceptions, and three tackles for loss. Following his collegiate career, he was selected in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders. Over six seasons in the NFL, he played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, and Atlanta Falcons.
Impact on Auburn’s Football Program
Van Dyke’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance Auburn’s defensive capabilities and recruiting efforts. His experience in the NFL and his strong connections in crucial recruiting areas are expected to benefit the program significantly. Golesh emphasized the importance of having a coach with Van Dyke’s background, saying, “His NFL experience brings a valuable perspective to our program.”
As Auburn prepares for the upcoming season, the addition of Van Dyke to the coaching staff aims to elevate the team’s competitiveness in the NCAA landscape. His track record of building strong relationships with players and fostering their development suggests that he will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Auburn football.
Van Dyke resides in Montgomery, Alabama, with his wife, Kiawana, and their two children, DeMarcus Jr. and Kai. His transition to Auburn not only marks a new chapter in his coaching career but also signifies the university’s commitment to attracting top talent to its football program.
