Feb. 14, 2007

Alabama State head football coach Charlie Coe, set to enter his fifth season at the school, announced several changes to his football staff Tuesday.

"We are fortunate to have a really strong staff of coaches who can handle a variety of responsibilities," Coe said. "But I believe all of these changes -- when taken together -- make us an even stronger unit."

Reggie Barlow will move to receivers' coach after two years instructing the Hornets' quarterbacks. Barlow is considered ASU's best receiver ever and played eight years at the position in the NFL.

"Obviously, Reggie can offer his tremendous experiences to what will be a very young receiving corps," Coe said. "After so much success in the NFL, he has instant credibility with any player."

Lee Brown will assume Barlow's responsibilities with the ASU quarterbacks. Brown, who will remain the recruiting coordinator, is beginning his second year on the ASU staff.

"As a former head coach, Lee certainly understands that the quarterback is an extension of the head coach," Coe said. "He can offer quarterbacks a sense of the 'big picture' so to speak so they can understand what the entire team is trying to accomplish."

Derrick Jackson will take over as ASU's running back coach.

"With a proven guy like (All-SWAC running back) Jay Peck back there, DJ's ability to relate to players will be extremely important," Coe said. "His demeanor and his ability to connect with our student-athletes allow him to get the best out of his guys."

Also, Coe announced that Grady Brown will become the assistant recruiting coordinator.

"Grady is a great young coach," Coe said. "This gives him the opportunity to continue to grow as a professional."