HAMPTON, Va. (Dec. 12, 2025) Van Malone was named the 23rd head football coach in Hampton University history, when he was announced Friday by Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson Sr.
Malone comes to Hampton after spending the last seven seasons as assistant head coach, pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach at Kansas State. During his tenure, the Wildcats, posted a 53-34 (.609) record and earned five bowl invitations: the Liberty Bowl (2019), the Texas Bowl (2021), the Sugar Bowl (2022), the Pop-Tarts Bowl (2023), and the Rate Bowl (2024).
“Hampton University is a place of purpose, pride and possibility. My staff and families are beyond excited to begin our journey together,” said Malone. “With the Hampton Nation, we will build a program rooted in leadership, accountability and service — a family committed to excellence on-and-off the field. Our mission is simple: develop men, elevate our community and compete for championships one relationship at a time.”
Malone has built an impressive resume as a player and coach on both the college and professional levels. A defensive back, he played at Texas from 1990-93 and was a 1990 freshman All-American. He was a second-round (57th overall) draft pick by the Detroit Lions and played for the Lions (1994-97), then signed with the Arizona Cardinals before retiring due to injury.
He spent five years as a high school coach before coaching collegiately at North Dakota State, Western Michigan, North Texas State, Texas A&M Tulsa and Mississippi State
