Former NFL linebacker named Atlantic Coast (Fla.) head football coach

Former NFL linebacker Tony Gilbert has been named the new head football coach of the Atlantic Coast Stingrays in Jacksonville, Florida. The announcement, posted by the Atlantic Coast High School athletic department on Instagram, confirms Gilbert’s promotion after serving as defensive coordinator last season. A Georgia alumnus who played seven NFL seasons, Gilbert spent most of his pro career with the Jacksonville Jaguars (2003-2007) and the Falcons, before coaching at SEC and other Division I programs. The Stingrays finished 4-6 in 2025 and now aim for their first winning season since 2021, with Gilbert bringing NFL and collegiate coaching experience to Duval County.