Graham Craig introduced by Valdosta State

Published 2:17 pm Monday, January 27, 2025

VALDOSTA— Valdosta State University ushered in a new chapter for its football program Friday, officially introducing Graham Craig as the 12th head coach of the Blazers.

Craig, a former Blazer quarterback and recent offensive coordinator, takes the helm after a standout 2024 season in which the team captured its 11th Gulf South Conference title and finished as NCAA Division II national runners-up. His leadership and offensive expertise have positioned him as an ideal candidate to carry forward the program’s legacy.

The new head coach quickly expressed his admiration for the players’ dedication both on and off the field, emphasizing their roles as student-athletes and community leaders. 

Email newsletter signup

“The discipline and the hard work that goes into football are the same things that go into academics and the same things that go into impacting the community,” Craig said following his introductory press conference.

Craig’s ties to the program run deep, having played a key role in the Blazers’ 2012 national championship team. As offensive coordinator in 2024, his unit ranked among the nation’s best, finishing 11th in total offense and eighth in scoring. His leadership helped several players, including quarterback Sammy Edwards, achieve All-America honors.

Craig expressed gratitude to former head coach Tremaine Jackson, who led the Blazers to remarkable success last season. “Coach Jackson did a fantastic job, so there’s a lot of things that we need to continue to build upon that success that he set,” Craig noted.

Throughout the introductory press conference, Craig discussed his mentality and goals for the future. Craig’s focus is on the legacy of Blazer football and the futures of the players under his direction.

Craig emphasized that the team will “continue to work hard to be able to get back to the championship and hopefully have a different result.” 

With staffing and recruiting efforts a priority, Craig and his team are laying the groundwork for another successful season. As the Blazers build on their legacy, fans look forward to a new era under coach Craig’s leadership.