Top North Georgia Coaching Hires This Offseason

Top North Georgia Football Coaching Hires (2026 Off-Season)

1. Santavious Bryant — Gainesville

Previous: Head Coach, Grayson (37–5, 2024 State Champion)

Bryant headlines this year’s class as one of the most high-profile hires in the state. A former head coach at Grayson, he brings championship experience and an elite defensive background to a Gainesville program that expects to compete at the highest level immediately. Having previously served as an assistant at Gainesville, Bryant is already familiar with the program’s culture and expectations.

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2. Rich Fendley — Rockmart

Previous: Bowdon (79–26), Alexander (2–18)

A four-time state champion at Bowdon, Fendley takes over a Rockmart program with a strong foundation. Known for his physical style and disciplined teams, his arrival signals continued success for the Yellow Jackets. With a heavy emphasis on strength and conditioning, Fendley’s impact in the weight room will be immediate. If the community fully buys into his philosophy, Rockmart has the potential to become a true state powerhouse.

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3. David Nichols — Fannin County

Previous: Defensive Coordinator, Lumpkin County; Defensive Coordinator & Head Wrestling Coach, North Hall

2× State Wrestling Champion Coach (2018, 2020)

Arguably Nichols was one of the top Defensive Coordinator’s in the state, Nichols brings energy, toughness, and a strong emphasis on culture to Blue Ridge. Widely respected for his relentless work ethic and leadership, he is expected to elevate a Fannin County program that will pride itself on reloading rather than rebuilding. His defensive mindset and commitment to the weight room make him an ideal fit for mountain football. One of the most underrated hires in Georgia this offseason.

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4. Bill Stewart — Rome

Previous: Defensive Coordinator, Rabun County; Head Coach at North Gwinnett (60–19) and Etowah (41–26)

Stewart steps into one of Georgia’s premier programs with an impressive résumé that includes a state championship at North Gwinnett. A proven winner, he brings experience, discipline, and consistency to Rome. With one of the toughest schedules in the state, Stewart’s track record shows he’s more than capable of sustaining the program’s elite standard.

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5. Biff Parson — Hart County

Previous: Rockmart (105–23), Banks County (10–20)

A veteran coach with a long track record of success, Parson takes over at Hart County after a dominant run at Rockmart, where he won nine region titles. His experience brings stability and high expectations to the Bulldogs. Parson also returns to Hart County, where he previously served as offensive coordinator in 2002.

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6. Mark Hollars — Banks County

Previous: Offensive Coordinator, Banks County; Head Coach at Commerce (31–16) and North Cobb Christian (30–25)

Hollars is known for building disciplined, competitive teams. Already familiar with the program, he steps into the head role with the goal of helping Banks County take the next step in a challenging region.

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7. Alec Lemon — Walker School

Previous: Head Coach, Glen Burnie (MD) (28–27)

A former NFL player with the Houston Texans and Baltimore Ravens, Lemon represents a younger, developmental hire with strong upside. His experience at the highest level of football, combined with his leadership, could have a lasting impact on the Walker program.

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8. Jamie Abrams — Bowdon

Previous: Defensive Coordinator, Bowdon; Head Coach at Cedartown (50–12) and Lamar County (15–7)

Abrams steps into a premier program following Rich Fendley’s departure. A proven winner with three region titles at Cedartown, he inherits high expectations and a winning culture. Having served as Bowdon’s defensive coordinator last season, Abrams brings both continuity and leadership to the role.

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9. Ashley Henderson — East Jackson

Previous: Jasper County (27–19), Thomas County Central (19–22), Valwood (66–12)

Henderson is a steady, program-building hire. With experience across multiple programs, he brings leadership and structure to East Jackson, with the opportunity to establish long-term consistency and growth.

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10. Quentin Davie — Hebron Christian

Former Northwestern Linebacker; 2010 Butkus Award Watch List

Davie brings energy, recruiting ability, and high-level playing experience to Hebron Christian. With the potential to quickly elevate the program, this hire could pay dividends in the near future.

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Conclusion

This year’s group of coaching hires highlights the strength and depth of North Georgia football. With a combination of established winners and emerging young leaders, these coaches will play a major role in shaping the competitive landscape across the region in the seasons ahead.