Florida Atlantic University (FAU) football has seen 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's shaping up to be one of the hottest 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 of FAU. According to a source familiar with Lewis' 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' transformational work in Colorado.
At 49, 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 present a significant obstacle. “Ray wants this job badly,” said a source familiar with his intentions. Although Lewis has the support of a close ally in Cris Carter, FAU's executive director of player engagement, insiders suggest he is not currently seen as a serious contender for the position.
Meanwhile, the favorite 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 getting strong support from key figures within of the university. Weis has demonstrated 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 strong support from Kiffin, Weis is widely considered the favorite to take over the Owls. However, returning to FAU may require Weis to take a significant pay cut from his current $1.65 million salary at Ole Miss, a factor that sources say would not prevent him from pursuing the position.
In addition to Weis, several other candidates are emerging as potential candidates for the FAU vacancy.
Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner is another intriguing option. The 43-year-old 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 leadership, Georgia Tech jumped to third in the conference in offensive production last season, and its efficiency in the red zone was a marked improvement.
Penn State assistant head coach and co-offensive coordinator Ja'Juan Seider is also expected to draw attention. Originally from Belle Glade, Florida, Seider has strong local ties and a reputation for connecting with players. As a former Florida A&M standout quarterback, Seider's South Florida connections and recruiting prowess could make him an attractive candidate for FAU.
Another name making waves is UCF offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr. A Miami native and former NCAA All-American on the track, Harris has spent his entire coaching career in Florida, including successful stints at FIU, Miami and UCF. His experience coaching at South Florida, combined with his role in developing UCF's high-powered offense, make him an attractive option.
UNLV offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, a former Miami Dolphins player who once lived in Boynton Beach, is also in the mix. Marion quickly built a reputation as an innovative offensive mind, leading UNLV to one of the most efficient offenses in the nation despite dealing with quarterback injuries. This season, his team has averaged 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 Florida State's defensive backs coach, 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 in Miami, could also be a name to keep an eye on. Hartley has been a key figure on Kirby Smart's staff since returning to Georgia in 2019 and is drawing interest from numerous programs, including Southern Miss.
Duke defensive coordinator Jonathan Patke, a protégé of Manny Diaz, is another rising star among the coaches. Patke had an impressive first season at Duke and could become a dark candidate in FAU's coaching search.
Finally, Miami defensive backs 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 successfully transitioned into coaching after a legendary NFL career. His work at the St. Thomas Aquinas powerhouse and his current role with the Hurricanes have solidified his reputation as a talent developer.
As the coaching carousel turns, FAU's search for its next leader promises to be one of the most fascinating storylines of the offseason. With candidates ranging from experienced 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.
