Autry Denson facts for kids

Autry Lamont Denson, born on December 8, 1976, is a well-known figure in American football. He is currently a coach for the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL). Before becoming a coach, Denson was a talented player himself. He also served as the head coach at Charleston Southern University from 2019 to 2022.

Denson played college football as a running back for the University of Notre Dame. After college, he played professionally for several teams. These included the Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts, and Chicago Bears in the NFL. He also played for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Autry Denson's Playing Journey

Autry Denson had an impressive journey in football, starting from high school and continuing through college and professional leagues.

High School Football Days

Denson attended Nova High School in Davie, Florida. There, he played football under coach Willie Dodaro.

College Football Achievements

Autry Denson became a legend at the University of Notre Dame. He holds the record as Notre Dame's all-time leading rusher. He gained an amazing 4,318 yards and scored 43 touchdowns during his college career. He also set many other rushing records for the university.

In 1997, he ran for 1,268 yards and scored 12 touchdowns. The next year, in 1998, he gained 1,306 yards and scored 18 touchdowns. Denson was even named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the Gator Bowl in 1999. This game was played against Georgia Tech.

Professional Football Career

Denson was chosen by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 1999 NFL draft. He was the 233rd pick in the seventh round. However, he did not play in a regular game for Tampa Bay.

He then played for the Miami Dolphins from 1999 to 2000. During this time, he ran for 206 yards and caught 18 passes for 133 yards. In 2000, he also returned 20 kicks for 495 yards. Denson spent the 2001 season with the Chicago Bears. He mostly played on special teams, returning 23 kicks for 534 yards. In 2002, he played for the Indianapolis Colts.

In 2004, Denson played in the Canadian Football League (CFL) for the Montreal Alouettes. He had a great season, finishing with 772 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He even earned "player of the week" honors during that season.

Autry Denson's Coaching Path

After his playing career, Autry Denson transitioned into coaching, sharing his knowledge and experience with new generations of football players.

Starting His Coaching Career

In April 2010, Denson became the head football coach at Pope John Paul II High School in Boca Raton, Florida. This was his first coaching role after his playing days.

Coaching at Bethune–Cookman

In 2011, Denson joined Bethune–Cookman University as their running backs coach. He helped guide the team's running backs for several seasons.

Working with Miami (OH)

Denson moved to Miami University in 2014. There, he continued his role as a running backs coach.

Returning to Notre Dame

In 2015, Autry Denson returned to his old college, the University of Notre Dame. He was hired as the running backs coach, helping the team where he once set records as a player.

Leading Charleston Southern

On January 14, 2019, Denson was named the head coach at Charleston Southern University. He led the Charleston Southern Buccaneers football team for four seasons. He finished his time there after the 2022 season. His overall coaching record at Charleston Southern was 14 wins and 22 losses.

Coaching the Arizona Cardinals

On March 1, 2023, the Arizona Cardinals hired Autry Denson. He is currently serving as their running backs coach in the NFL.

Head Coaching Record Overview

Autry Denson served as the head coach for the Charleston Southern Buccaneers in the Big South Conference.