Florida Atlantic University (FAU) football has experienced significant growth over the past decade, first gaining national attention under Lane Kiffin and continuing to carve out its niche under Willie Taggart and Tom Herman. Now, with Herman’s departure, the Owls are embarking on what is shaping up to be one of the most captivating coaching searches in college football this year.
Adding an unexpected twist to the process, Miami legend Ray Lewis has reportedly expressed a strong desire to take the helm at FAU. According to a source familiar with Lewis’s intentions, the Pro Football Hall of Famer is preparing to present a vision to FAU leadership, outlining how he would revitalize the program in a manner similar to Deion Sanders’ transformative work at Colorado.
At 49 years old, Lewis is an NFL icon, a 13-time Pro Bowl linebacker who lives just minutes from FAU’s campus. While his passion for the role is undeniable, his lack of college coaching experience could pose a significant hurdle. “Ray wants this job badly,” said a source familiar with his intentions. While Lewis has the backing of a close ally in Cris Carter, FAU’s executive director of player engagement, insiders suggest that he is not currently seen as a serious contender for the position.
Meanwhile, the frontrunner for the job appears to be Ole Miss offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. The 31-year-old, who served as Lane Kiffin’s offensive coordinator during his time at FAU, is drawing strong support from key figures within the university. Weis has proven his offensive acumen, overseeing one of the nation’s most explosive offenses at Ole Miss, which ranks second in the country in yards per play (7.58). With deep ties to the program and a strong endorsement from Kiffin, Weis is widely regarded as the favorite to take over the Owls. However, returning to FAU may require Weis to accept a significant pay cut from his current $1.65 million salary at Ole Miss—a factor that sources believe would not deter him from pursuing the position.
Beyond Weis, several other candidates are emerging as potential fits for the FAU vacancy.
Buster Faulkner, Georgia Tech’s offensive coordinator, is another intriguing option. The 43-year-old has made a name for himself by revitalizing Georgia Tech’s offense, transforming it from one of the ACC’s least productive units to one of its best. Under his guidance, Georgia Tech jumped to third in the conference in offensive production last season, and his red zone efficiency has been a marked improvement.
Penn State assistant head coach and co-offensive coordinator Ja’Juan Seider is also expected to garner consideration. A Belle Glade, Florida native, Seider has strong local ties and a reputation for connecting with players. As a former standout quarterback at Florida A&M, Seider’s South Florida connections and recruiting prowess could make him an attractive candidate for FAU.
Another name generating buzz is UCF offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr. A Miami native and former NCAA All-American in track, Harris has spent his entire coaching career in Florida, including successful stints at FIU, Miami, and UCF. His experience coaching in South Florida, combined with his role in developing UCF’s high-powered offense, makes him a compelling option.
UNLV offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, a former Miami Dolphins player who once lived in Boynton Beach, is also in the mix. Marion has quickly built a reputation as an innovative offensive mind, guiding UNLV to one of the nation’s most efficient offenses despite dealing with quarterback injuries. This season, his unit is averaging nearly 40 points per game, and his ability to adapt and develop young talent has made him a rising star in coaching circles.
Pat Surtain, currently the defensive backs coach at Florida State, is another potential candidate. A former NFL cornerback who played a decade in the league, Surtain has deep roots in South Florida, where he previously served as a highly successful high school coach. While he is also being considered for other head coaching vacancies, his ties to the region could make him a strong candidate for FAU.
Georgia assistant coach Todd Hartley, who spent three years coaching at Miami, could also be a name to watch. Hartley has been a key figure on Kirby Smart’s staff since returning to Georgia in 2019 and is drawing interest from multiple programs, including Southern Miss.
Duke defensive coordinator Jonathan Patke, a protégé of Manny Diaz, is another rising star in the coaching ranks. Patke has had an impressive first season at Duke and could become a dark horse candidate in the FAU coaching search.
Lastly, Miami defensive ends coach Jason Taylor has emerged as an intriguing option. A Pro Football Hall of Famer and one of South Florida’s most beloved sports figures, Taylor has transitioned successfully into coaching after a legendary NFL career. His work at powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas and his current role with the Hurricanes have bolstered his reputation as a developer of talent.
As the coaching carousel spins, FAU’s search for its next leader promises to be one of the most fascinating storylines of the offseason. With candidates ranging from seasoned coordinators to high-profile former players, the Owls have no shortage of intriguing options as they look to build on their recent success and position themselves for the future.
