Scott Cochran, a key figure in Alabama’s football dynasty under Nick Saban, is now continuing to build his own program at NCAA Division II West Alabama. As Cochran works to shape the Tigers’ future, he’s wisely bringing elements of Alabama’s championship pedigree to his new role. A notable addition to his staff is Reggie Ragland, who joins West Alabama as the new director of player personnel.
Ragland, a former defensive lineman at Alabama, was part of the team that won a national championship. He went on to have a successful NFL career after being drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, playing for the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs. Ragland’s most notable achievement in the NFL was winning a Super Bowl with the Chiefs in 2020, when they defeated the San Francisco 49ers.
His hiring at West Alabama adds to the growing list of former Alabama players on Cochran’s coaching staff, now totaling six former Tide players. Ragland joins a staff that already includes former Alabama quarterback Blake Sims, tight end O.J. Howard, running back Bo Scarbrough, and defensive lineman Damion Square.
Cochran’s first season at West Alabama is set to begin on August 30 when the Tigers face Fort Valley State at Birmingham’s Legion Field. As he builds his program, Cochran’s connections to Alabama’s football legacy will no doubt play a significant role in the Tigers’ future success.