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Former Georgia staffer Scott Cochran hired as head coach

On3 imageby: Jake Rowe02/03/25JakeMRowe
Scott Cochran
Georgia Special Teams Coordinator Scott Cochran during the Dawg Walk before Georgia’s game against Tennessee on Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022. (Photo by Kayla Renie)

Add a chapter to Scott Cochran‘s redemption story. After overcoming multiple bouts with addiction in recent years, including twice at Georgia, he is getting a chance to become a head coach. Cochran was hired to lead the West Alabama football program on Monday.

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the University of West Alabama football program as head coach,” Cochran said in the official announcement made on program’s website. “UWA has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, and I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated staff, and passionate community to continue that legacy. Together, we will strive for greatness and make our supporters proud.”

My own personal struggles have given me a unique perspective that allows me to expertly develop players and prepare them to go to the next level. I get to know players better than they know themselves, and I feel that I have something to give back through head coaching. This is more than just a job for me; it’s a calling to help young men grow both on and off the field.”

Cochran spent four seasons at Georgia as the special teams coach but he was away from the program for most of the 2021 campaign. Cochran entered a rehabilitation facility prior to the start of that season due to an addiction to opiates.

He rejoined the team late that season as Georgia won its first National Championship in 41 years. He was back with the program for the 2022 and 2023 seasons in an off-field capacity before leaving the program almost a year ago to the date. He entered rehab in Athens shortly thereafter according to Mark Schlabach of ESPN.

Prior to his time at Georgia, Cochran was at Alabama 14 years with Nick Saban. He left the Crimson Tide for a chance to be an on-field after helping them win five National Championships as the head strength and conditioning coach.

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