Football Adds Larry Knight As Outside Linebackers Coach

ATHENS, Ga. – The Georgia Bulldogs have appointed Larry Knight as their new Outside Linebackers Coach, as announced by head coach Kirby Smart. Knight returns to his home state after a recent role with the West Virginia Mountaineers.

A Proven Track Record

Coach Smart expressed enthusiasm for the addition, stating Knight “has produced on the field at all of his coaching stops and has also proven his worth as one of the best recruiters around.” Knight’s appointment brings a wealth of experience to the Bulldogs’ defensive staff.

Recent Success at Arkansas State

Prior to joining Georgia, Knight served as the defensive ends coach and run game coordinator at Arkansas State for the 2025 season. He contributed to a successful season for the Red Wolves, who achieved seven wins and a second-place finish in the Sun Belt Conference Western Division.

Did You Know? Arkansas State’s defense, under Knight’s guidance, tied for No. 6 nationally in average sacks per game with 3.00.

The Arkansas State defense excelled in generating pressure, registering 39 sacks – tying for the top spot in the Sun Belt Conference. The team also boasted three of the conference’s top seven sack leaders and all four starting defensive linemen received All-League recognition.

Extensive Coaching Experience

Knight’s coaching career includes positions at multiple institutions, including Temple, Georgia Tech, Georgia State, Tennessee, and Cincinnati. He also completed a Bill Walsh Minority Internship with the Green Bay Packers in 2025.

Expert Insight: Knight’s diverse coaching background, spanning multiple conferences and levels, suggests an adaptability that could be valuable in maintaining the high standards of Georgia’s defense.

During his time at Georgia Tech (2019-2022), Knight played a key role in recruiting, helping the Yellow Jackets secure the second-highest ranked recruiting class in programme history in 2020 and the highest-rated defensive line class in 2021. He also contributed to the development of All-ACC players and future NFL draft picks.

A Return to Georgia

Knight is a native of Augusta, Georgia, and played college football at Central Michigan, where he was a Mid-American Conference all-league performer in 2009 and helped lead the Chippewas to three conference titles. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan in 2010.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Larry Knight’s role at West Virginia?

Larry Knight held a position as the Outside Linebackers Coach at West Virginia prior to accepting the role at Georgia.

What accomplishments did Knight have at Arkansas State?

Knight helped lead Arkansas State to seven wins and a second-place finish in the Sun Belt Conference Western Division. The Red Wolves’ defense tied for No. 6 nationally in average sacks per game.

Where did Knight play college football?

Larry Knight played college football at Central Michigan, where he was a four-year letterwinner and a Mid-American Conference all-league performer.

How will Knight’s recruiting experience impact the Bulldogs’ future roster composition?