Tennessee Football Analyst Joins UCF as Quarterbacks Coach: “It’s Beyond Analyzing”
In a move that highlights his passion for coaching and development, Tennessee football analyst Alex Mortensen has accepted the position of quarterbacks coach at the University of Central Florida (UCF). Mortensen, known for his sharp football mind and meticulous attention to detail, expressed excitement about the transition, emphasizing that this new role goes far beyond simply analyzing the game.
Mortensen has been an integral part of the Tennessee Volunteers football program, where his expertise in offensive schemes and player development played a key role in the team’s recent successes. Serving as an analyst allowed him to study the game in-depth, contribute to game plans, and mentor players indirectly. However, the opportunity to work directly with quarterbacks as a position coach is a dream come true.
“This is beyond analyzing,” Mortensen said in a statement. “It’s about being in the trenches with these players every day, teaching, guiding, and helping them reach their full potential. I’ve always loved the strategic aspect of football, but nothing compares to the hands-on experience of coaching.”
Mortensen brings a wealth of experience to UCF. Before his tenure at Tennessee, he spent time working in other prominent football programs and even had stints at the professional level. His deep understanding of quarterback mechanics, decision-making, and leadership development makes him an ideal fit for UCF, a program with a strong offensive identity under head coach Gus Malzahn.
At Tennessee, Mortensen was instrumental in preparing the team’s quarterbacks for game-day success. His work behind the scenes helped shape the Volunteers’ dynamic offense, which became one of the most explosive in the SEC. Now, he’ll have the chance to directly mold the Knights’ quarterbacks, a responsibility he welcomes with open.
UCF’s move to the Big 12 has elevated its status as a program with national relevance, and Mortensen sees it as the perfect place to make an impact. With Malzahn at the helm, the Knights have developed a reputation for producing high-powered offenses and grooming quarterbacks who excel in both college and the NFL.
“The vision Gus Malzahn has for this program is something I’m excited to be a part of,” Mortensen explained. “UCF is on the rise, and the opportunity to help build something special here is one I couldn’t pass up. The talent and potential in this quarterback room are incredible, and I’m eager to get started.”
The addition of Mortensen to the UCF coaching staff is a significant win for the Knights. His experience in the SEC, combined with his analytical expertise, will bring a fresh perspective to the team. Mortensen’s ability to identify and develop talent is expected to have an immediate impact, not only on the quarterbacks but also on the offense as a whole.
UCF fans have expressed excitement about the hire, viewing it as another step toward solidifying the program’s position as a contender in the Big 12. With Mortensen’s track record of success, expectations are high for the Knights’ quarterbacks to flourish under his guidance
For Mortensen, this transition marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his coaching career. While his time at Tennessee allowed him to develop as a strategist and mentor, the opportunity to step into a more hands-on role is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
“It’s about the relationships,” Mortensen said. “Coaching is more than X’s and O’s—it’s about building trust, helping players grow as athletes and as people, and celebrating their successes. That’s what I’m looking forward to the most.
As UCF prepares for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on the quarterback room to see the impact of Mortensen’s coaching. With a proven track record and a deep passion for the game, he is poised to make a lasting difference.
For Tennessee, Mortensen’s departure leaves a void, but it also underscores the strength of the program’s coaching tree. His promotion reflects the level of talent and expertise within the Volunteers’ staff, as well as the program’s ability to prepare coaches for the next step in their careers.
As Mortensen begins his journey with UCF, his focus is clear: to go beyond analyzing and help his players achieve greatness. For the Knights, his arrival signals the start of a promising new era in quarterback development, one that could propel the program to new heights in the Big 12.