Jeff Choate hired as Nevada head football coach
Texas co-DC Jeff Choate was announced yesterday as the new head coach at Nevada. Prior to his stint in Austin, Choate went 28-22 in four seasons with FCS Montana State, including an 11-4 record in 2019 that had the team ranked #4 at season’s end.
“I am incredibly pleased to introduce Jeff Choate as the next head football coach at the University of Nevada,” said AD Stephanie Rempe. “Jeff has coached with and developed under the tutelage of some of the best football minds in the game. His style and vision fit everything we believe will build Wolf Pack Football back into a championship-caliber program. Whether as a head coach or an assistant, Jeff has continually developed programs and student athletes into champions throughout his career. We are excited to welcome the Choate family to Reno and the Northern Nevada community.”
Choate spent the last three seasons working under Steve Sarkisian with the Longhorns, helping lead the Big 12’s best defense in 2023. Texas just beat Oklahoma State in the Big 12 title game to improve to 12-1 and are squarely in the mix to earn a spot in the CFP.
“Becoming the head coach at an FBS program has always been my dream. Along my journey, I’ve been fortunate to work with some exceptional individuals—players, coaches, and mentors—whose influence has shaped me both as a person and a coach. I owe a heartfelt thank you to my family for their unwavering support; they have been my anchor through every climb and challenge,” Choate said. “I would like to thank all of the players, past and present, for the incredible impact they have had on me as a human being and a coach. And I would like to thank Chris Del Conte and Steve Sarkisian for their support and encouragement, as I take this next step in my journey.”
In addition to his tenures at Texas and Montana State, Choate has worked at Washington (2014-15), Florida (2013), Washington State (2012), Boise State (2006-11), Eastern Illinois (2005) and Utah State (2002-04). Originally from Columbus, Ohio, he played collegiately at Montana Western (NAIA) and got his start coaching there and then at several high schools in Idaho.
Nevada moved on from previous head coach Ken Wilson last week after just two seasons, with the Wolfpack going 2-10 each year. Prior to that setback, the program was a regular in the postseason with 14 bowl appearances and 5 victories since 2005.
credit to Nevada Athletics for the image
