The Colorado State University (CSU) football landscape has seen a dramatic shift since the conclusion of the 2025 season, marked by a pivotal mid-season leadership change. This comprehensive overview delves into the current professional standings of the coaching personnel who were part of the CSU football program under former head coach Jay Norvell. As the 2026 season kicks off, many have transitioned to new roles across different levels of football, from collegiate programs and the NFL to high school athletics, highlighting the dynamic nature of coaching careers in American football.
Jay Norvell, who commenced the 2025 season as CSU's head coach, was dismissed from his position in October. Following his departure from CSU, Norvell has since found a new role with the Iowa Hawkeyes, where he now serves as the running backs coach. This move represents a significant shift from a head coaching role to a specialized assistant position within a prominent Big Ten conference team.
Tyson Summers, initially brought in by Norvell as the defensive coordinator for the 2025 season, stepped into the interim head coach role after Norvell's firing. His performance and leadership during this transitional period led to his retention by the incoming head coach, Jim Mora. Consequently, Summers continues his tenure as CSU's defensive coordinator for the 2026 season, providing continuity to the team's defensive strategy.
Other notable coaching staff members have also pursued various opportunities. Matt Mumme, who held the titles of associate head coach and passing game coordinator, and briefly called plays, is not currently engaged in coaching. Bill Best, the run game coordinator and offensive line coach, has moved to Louisiana Tech, assuming the same role. Tommy Perry, formerly CSU's special teams coordinator, now holds that position at South Alabama. Matty Ah You and Brayden Herdic both remain with CSU in their respective roles as nickelbacks coach and safeties coach under the new leadership.
Grant Chesnut, who was CSU's tight ends coach and later play-caller, has transitioned to high school athletics, serving as an assistant principal, athletic director, and offensive coordinator at Bremen High School in Georgia. James Finley, a former wide receivers coach at CSU, is now with Oregon State in the same capacity and is slated to face his former team in an upcoming game. Chase Holbrook, the quarterbacks coach, has taken on an administrative role as the director of football strategy at Baylor. Meanwhile, John Jancek and Clint Sintim, who coached outside linebackers and linebackers respectively, do not appear on any known coaching staffs for 2026. Luke Johnson, the defensive line coach, has ascended to the professional ranks, joining the Washington Commanders as a defensive quality control assistant, and Nigel Madison, the cornerbacks coach, is now the inside linebackers coach at UAB. Jeremy Moses, the running backs coach, has also returned to high school football as the offensive coordinator at Crosby High School in Texas.
The 2025 season marked a period of extensive transition for Colorado State football, leading to a dispersion of its coaching talent across collegiate, professional, and high school levels. These changes underscore the fluid nature of coaching careers, with individuals seeking new challenges and opportunities following organizational shifts. The new coaching landscape reflects diverse pathways for these experienced football strategists.
