Jacksonville, FL., -- The Edward Water Football team announced the hiring of two new coaches to their staff. In March 2025, Darrin Hayes was appointed as Defensive Coordinator and Eric Caler as Wide Receivers Coach for the EWU Tigers football team.
Darrin Hayes isn't just a football coach; he's a defensive architect, a mentor, and a proven winner. With a career spanning decades and multiple universities, Hayes consistently elevated defensive units, developed players for the next level, and left an indelible mark on every program he's touched.
From his early days as a defensive back coach at Knoxville College to his current role as Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Passing Game Coordinator at Stetson University, Hayes's journey showcases a relentless pursuit of excellence. His resume isn't just a list of positions held; it's a testament to his ability to build dominant defenses and cultivate talent.
Hayes's impact is evident in the statistical transformations he's engineered. At Mississippi Valley State University, he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, taking a defense from the bottom of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) to a top five unit in just one year. His tenure as Defensive Coordinator at Jackson State University saw similar success, consistently ranking among the SWAC's best and even achieving national recognition. In 2011, Hayes's defense at Jackson State was ranked No. 1 in the NCAA in Red Zone Defense and Passing Defense Efficiency, solidifying his reputation as a defensive mastermind.
Beyond the impressive statistics, Hayes's true impact lies in his ability to develop players. He has coached numerous All-Conference selections and a staggering number of players who have gone on to the NFL and other professional leagues. Players like Jacoby Jones, a Lane College standout who became a Pro-Bowler with the Baltimore Ravens, and countless others credit Hayes's coaching and mentorship for their success. Hayes's coaching prowess has led to 19 players drafted into the NFL.
Hayes's success is rooted in his meticulous approach to the game. He is known for his detailed scouting reports, innovative defensive strategies, and ability to implement multiple defensive fronts without personnel changes. His commitment to academic success is also noteworthy, as demonstrated by the academic tutorial program he created at Lane College, which led to a significant increase in student-athlete retention.
Hayes continues to make an impact at Stetson University. In 2023, his first year as Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Passing Game Coordinator, the Hatters boasted the #1 pass defense in the Pioneer Football League (PFL) and ranked #9 nationally in pass defense. He also coached three All-Conference defensive backs, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier defensive coach.
Darrin Hayes is more than just a football coach; he is a leader, a mentor, and a community advocate. His involvement with organizations like the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), the Black Coaches Association (BCA), and community programs like the National Youth Sports Program and Big Brothers/Big Sisters demonstrates his commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field.
Darrin Hayes's career is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and a genuine commitment to player development. As he continues to shape the landscape of college football, his legacy as a defensive innovator and a champion of student-athletes is sure to endure.
Eric Caler's journey is a testament to leadership, adaptability, and a relentless drive for success. From the battlefields of Baghdad to the sidelines of collegiate football, Caler has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, transforming his experiences into a winning playbook for his players.
Caler's coaching career, while relatively young, is already marked by impressive results. Currently serving as Wide Receivers Coach at Allen University, he has quickly elevated the passing game, boasting a remarkable 205.6 receiving yards per game and 20 touchdowns. This offensive firepower contributes to an impressive 26.4 points per game for the Yellow Jackets.
Before dedicating himself to coaching, Caler served in the United States Army National Guard, including a tour in Baghdad during Operation Iraqi Freedom 3. His service earned him numerous accolades, including the Combat Action Badge and the Army Commendation Medal w/M Device, highlighting his bravery and dedication under pressure. This experience instilled in him the values of discipline, teamwork, and leadership – qualities that now define his coaching style.
Caler's resume showcases a diverse range of coaching experiences. At Lake Erie College, as Running Backs Coach and Special Teams Coordinator, he improved the rushing attack, leading to 97.5 rush yards per game and 14 touchdowns. Before that, as an Offensive Graduate Assistant at Alabama A&M University, he contributed to the program's success, earning recognition as part of the American Football Coaches Association Minority Offensive Staff of the Year in 2021.
His impact is particularly evident at Highland Community College, where as the Wide Receiver Coach, he oversaw a passing attack that averaged 246.17 yards per game. Under his tutelage, Deontay Campbell earned NCJAA All-American and KJCCC All-Conference honors.
Caler's commitment to education is evident in his academic achievements. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Kent State University and a Master of Science in Kinesiology from Alabama A&M University. This foundation, combined with his on-field experience, allows him to effectively teach and mentor his players.
Eric Caler's transition from soldier to coach is a story of leadership, resilience, and a passion for the game. His ability to translate his military experience into effective coaching strategies has made him an asset to every program he's been a part of. With a proven track record of improving offensive performance and developing players, Eric Caler is a coach to watch in the world of college football. He's proving that his dedication to service extends far beyond the battlefield, impacting young athletes and shaping future leaders.
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