Former NFL Player To Coach Edison Football Team - KMPH FOX 26 | Central San Joaquin Valley News Source

Former NFL Player To Coach Edison Football Team

Ricky Manning, Jr. -- former NFL defensive back and Edison High School graduate -- has been hired to lead the Edison High School football team, the Fresno Unified School District announced Monday.

"It's a great day when we can welcome back one of our graduates to lead our football team," said Edison High School Principal Brian Wall. "Mr. Manning was a standout at Edison not only on the football field, but as a student – he brings experience and heart that will benefit our student athletes greatly."

Manning played six seasons in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, and St. Louis Rams, and he played in two Super Bowls (XXXVIII and XL). The defensive back was drafted in the third round of the 2003 draft by the Carolina Panthers. While at UCLA, he earned Freshman All-American honors and 1st team All-Pac Ten for three consecutive years.

"I am fortunate to have this opportunity to give back to Edison High School and my community," Ricky Manning, Jr. said. "It is my vision to build a powerhouse team; but more importantly, to teach my players to be students of the game."

Manning graduated from Edison High School in 1999. He was named 1998 Central Section Player of the Year and all-conference for three consecutive years. Manning was also named 1997 Conference Defensive Player of the Year and 1998 Conference Offensive Player of the Year.

Manning replaces Tim McDonald, who was hired as the defensive coach for the Fresno State Bulldogs football team.

Information from Fresno Unified School District news release.