David Dean enters his 1st season as head coach at Delta State.
He was hired as the program’s 20th all-time head coach on February 6, 2026.
Dean arrives at Delta State with more than 35 years of collegiate coaching experience, including over two decades as a head coach, and a proven track record of sustained excellence at the national level. Over his career, Dean has compiled a 127–49 record as a head coach, captured three NCAA Division II National Championships, earned a national runner-up finish, and won seven Gulf South Conference championships. His success places him as the second-winningest head coach in GSC history, one of the most competitive leagues in Division II football.
Most recently, Dean served as head coach at the University of West Georgia from 2017–23, where he became the winningest coach in school history with a 48–20 record. Under his leadership, the Wolves reached the NCAA Division II playoffs three times, including back-to-back appearances in 2017 and 2018, and again in 2021. During the 2022 season, Dean’s offense led all of Division II in total offense, displaying his long-standing reputation as one of the most innovative offensive minds in the college game.
During his time in Carrollton, Dean and his team has produced 40 All-Gulf South Conference selections and 16 All-Americans. Two players from his 2019 squad, John Hurst and Azouyah Alufohai signed undrafted free agent contracts in the National Football League.
Dean is best known for his success at Valdosta State University, where he built a national powerhouse during two separate stints. As head coach from 2007–15, he posted a 79–27 overall record, led the Blazers to NCAA Division II National Championships in 2007 and 2012, and guided the program to six playoff appearances. Dean was named AFCA National Coach of the Year in both championship seasons and earned multiple regional and conference coaching honors during his tenure.
Beyond his individual success, Dean’s VSU players captured the highest of honors. His VSU teams had 18 Division II All-America selections, while 10 players signed National Football League contracts. Dean also coached three players who earned GSC Freshman of the Year honors, two league players of the year, and a national defensive player of the year.
In addition to his time as head coach, Dean also played a key role in Valdosta State’s 2004 national championship as offensive coordinator, helping guide one of the most prolific offenses in Division II history. His teams have been consistently known for explosive offensive production, disciplined special teams play, and a strong emphasis on academic accountability.
Dean also brings Division I experience, having served as co-offensive coordinator and passing game coordinator at Georgia Southern University during the 2016 season. Under his leadership, the Eagles saw significant increases in passing efficiency, yardage, and touchdown production, while also developing multiple players who earned opportunities at the professional level.
Dean is a native of DeKalb County in the metro Atlanta area. He was born in Decatur and enjoyed a stellar high school career for the Avondale Blue Devils. He is married to Stacie and has three daughters: Caroline, Allison, and Natalie.
Coaching Experience
Delta State
2026-Present Head Coach
West Georgia
2017-2023 Head Coach
Georgia Southern
2016 Assistant Coach/Co-Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receivers
Valdosta State
2007-2015 Head Coach
2000-2006 Assistant Coach/Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks
West Georgia
1998-1999 Assistant Coach/Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks
1993-1997 Assistant Coach/Running Backs/Special Teams
1992 Assistant Coach/Running Backs
Valdosta State
1988-1991 Assistant Coach/Wide Receivers
Georgia Tech
1986 Graduate Assistant
