Blake Gideon, a former standout safety for the Texas Longhorns, has announced his departure from his alma mater to assume the role of defensive coordinator at Georgia Tech. Gideon, who has been coaching safeties at Texas since 2021, expressed mixed emotions about this significant career move. In a heartfelt message shared on social media, he wrote, “Not my style, but here it goes. Most exciting and most difficult week of my career. Too many people to thank. Sark, PK, TJ, you’re the best. My guys in the Room…I love you, keep setting your alarm, keep stepping into the ring, keep the standard.”
During his tenure at Texas, Gideon played a pivotal role in developing a formidable defense. The Longhorns led the nation with 22 interceptions last year and allowed a national-best 5.69 yards per pass attempt, while ranking second with 31 takeaways, and third in both total defense (283.4) and scoring defense (15.3).
Gideon’s coaching journey began after an impressive playing career at Texas, where he started all 52 games from 2008 to 2011, ranking second in school history for consecutive starts. Following brief stints with the Arizona Cardinals and Denver Broncos in the NFL, he transitioned into coaching. His early coaching roles included positions at Florida, Auburn, Western Carolina, Georgia State, Houston, and Ole Miss, where he honed his skills and built a reputation as a rising defensive mind.
In 2021, Gideon returned to Texas as the safeties coach under head coach Steve Sarkisian. His impact was immediate, contributing to the Longhorns’ defensive resurgence and their consecutive appearances in the College Football Playoff semifinals in 2023 and 2024. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was named the 2024 National Defensive Backs Coach of the Year by Football Scoop.
At Georgia Tech, Gideon steps into the role of defensive coordinator, a significant milestone in his coaching career. Expressing his enthusiasm, he stated, “My family and I are excited to come to The Flats and join the Georgia Tech football family. I’m grateful to Coach Key for this opportunity and looking forward to working with him, the great staff that he’s assembled, and an outstanding group of talented players. The future of Tech football is bright, and I can’t wait to get to work.”
Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key expressed confidence in Gideon’s abilities, noting, “Blake has done a remarkable job throughout his career of developing student-athletes and putting them in position to play winning defense. We’re looking forward to him doing the same here on The Flats.”
Gideon’s departure from Texas marks the end of a significant chapter, both as a player and coach. His emotional farewell underscores the deep connections he formed within the Longhorns community. As he transitions to Georgia Tech, he carries with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of defensive excellence.
The move to Georgia Tech represents a new challenge for Gideon, as he takes on the responsibility of leading the Yellow Jackets’ defense. His appointment comes at a time when Georgia Tech is aiming to strengthen its defensive unit and build upon recent improvements. With Gideon’s leadership, there is optimism that the team will continue its upward trajectory.
For the Texas Longhorns, Gideon’s departure opens a new chapter as they seek to fill the void left by a respected coach. His contributions over the past four years have left a lasting impact, and his legacy will be remembered by players and colleagues alike.
As Blake Gideon embarks on this new journey with Georgia Tech, the football community will be watching closely to see how his leadership influences the Yellow Jackets’ defense. His track record suggests that he is well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead and continue his upward trajectory in the coaching ranks.
For more insights into Blake Gideon’s move to Georgia Tech, you can watch the following video: