The Miami Hurricanes are making a key move in their coaching staff, promoting Terry Jefferson to cornerbacks coach, according to reports from CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz. This promotion comes as Zac Etheridge departs for the Arizona Cardinals after just one season with the program.
Jefferson, a Miami native, already made his mark last season as the team's assistant defensive backs and nickelbacks coach. Under his guidance, nickelback Keionte Scott emerged as one of the nation's top defensive backs, eventually becoming a fourth-round pick by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2026 NFL Draft. It's a testament to Jefferson's ability to develop talent, which is exactly what the Hurricanes need in their secondary.
Before joining head coach Mario Cristobal's staff ahead of the 2025 season, Jefferson spent two seasons as Jacksonville State's cornerbacks coach. During his tenure there, the Gamecocks allowed the second-fewest passing touchdowns in their conference in 2023 and ranked second in league interceptions. Cornerback Derek Carter earned All-Conference USA Second-Team honors under his watch.
This isn't Jefferson's first rodeo with the Hurricanes. He's in his second stint with Miami, having previously spent three seasons with the program. He coached defensive backs in 2022 after two years working in their recruiting and personnel departments. That familiarity with the program and its culture should make for a smooth transition.
On the field, Jefferson knows what it takes to be a standout defensive back. He played his college football at FAMU, finishing his career with 217 tackles. He was a three-time All-MEAC selection and earned All-American honors in 2019. A product of Booker T. Washington High School in Miami, he's a homegrown talent who understands the local football landscape.
For a program like Miami, known for producing elite defensive backs—think Ed Reed, Sean Taylor, and Antrel Rolle—this promotion signals a commitment to maintaining that tradition. Jefferson's track record of developing players like Scott and his deep roots in South Florida football make him a strong fit to lead the cornerbacks room.