DB Coach Brandon Harris Named to 2026 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute ClassDB Coach Brandon Harris Named to 2026 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute Class

DB Coach Brandon Harris Named to 2026 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute Class

by Ken Landis

ORLANDO – UCF football defensive backs coach Brandon Harris has been named to the 2026 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute class.

The AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, presented by Riddell InSite Analytics, is a prestigious program designed to identify and develop premier, future leaders in the football coaching profession. Selected participants are invited to attend the one-day institute that features a curriculum of interactive lectures focused on topics specifically tailored to emphasize leadership in the coaching profession, ethics, influential responsibilities, career progression, and family balance.

Football_CK_3606_080925_1042208650.JPGStatistically, UCF had one of its best passing defenses in its FBS history this past season. The Knights defense allowed just 185.1 yards per game through the air in 2025, the third lowest clip since the Black and Gold became an FBS program in 1996 and the lowest since the 2001 season. UCF allowed just 13 passing touchdowns, eight less than the 2024 campaign.

Following the slate of conference championship games, UCF sat third in the Big 12 and 25th in the nation in passing yards allowed, as well as fourth in the conference in total defense.

“I’m thankful to be named to such a prestigious list, and I’m looking forward to continuing to grow and develop as a coach and teacher.”

Brandon HarrisUCF Defensive Backs Coach

Harris, a former second round NFL Draft pick, completed his first season as UCF football’s defensive backs coach. A name synonymous with football in the state of Florida, Harris joins the Knights after spending the previous three seasons as an assistant coach at Florida Atlantic. He served as the Owls’ co-defensive coordinator and cornerbacks coach in 2024.

About UCF Athletics
UCF is a proud member of the Big 12 Conference. Our mission is to positively transform the lives of our students academically, athletically, and personally through a nationally competitive intercollegiate athletics program that enhances the reputation and visibility of the University. We strive to be Florida's preeminent athletic program representing UCF and our community with distinction on the national stage as "Orlando's Hometown Team". To learn more about UCF and Athletics, please visit our websites at www.ucf.edu and www.ucfknights.com.