As the Director of Talent, I am actively seeking nominations of outstanding athletes to compete in the 2025 All State Game. Your nomination gives them the opportunity to showcase their skills, compete alongside the state’s best, and earn elite-level recognition. Honor their dedication by nominating them today and open the door to an unforgettable experience.
With over two decades of coaching experience and a proven track record of developing successful football programs, Coach Rodney Ellison is a force to be reckoned with in the world of youth football. As a coach with 23 years of experience, including 8 years as a head coach, Ellison has left his mark on both high school and middle school football in Tennessee. Now, as he steps into the role of coach for the 2025 All State Game, he will bring his wealth of knowledge and experience to help guide the next generation of football talent.
Coach Ellison’s career spans a variety of roles, each of which has shaped him into the dynamic and versatile coach he is today. From his early years as an assistant coach at Jacksboro Middle School to leading teams as a head coach at multiple schools, Ellison has consistently demonstrated his ability to develop strong programs and lead teams to success. His dedication to football has not only earned him the respect of his peers but also the admiration of the athletes he has mentored throughout his career.
One of the highlights of Ellison’s coaching journey was his role as the offensive coordinator for the NAIA college all-star team in the NAIA vs D2 challenge in 2014. In this prestigious event, Ellison had the opportunity to showcase his strategic prowess on a national stage, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier offensive mind. His expertise as a certified Air Raid Offensive Coordinator through the Tony Franklin System has been a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy, emphasizing high-paced, high-scoring offensive play.
Throughout his career, Coach Ellison has made significant contributions to multiple programs, including his time as the head coach at Oak Ridge Jefferson Middle School from 2022 to 2024. His leadership at Oak Ridge High School as an assistant coach and offensive coordinator from 2019 to 2021 further demonstrated his ability to craft dynamic offenses and mentor young athletes. Prior to his work at Oak Ridge, Ellison served as the receivers coach at Knoxville Catholic in 2018 and the head coach at Powell High School from 2015 to 2017, showcasing his adaptability and experience across different levels of competition.
Coach Ellison’s influence in the world of Tennessee football is not limited to high school programs. He has also been a key figure in middle school football, starting his coaching career as an assistant coach at Jacksboro Middle School from 1997 to 2000 and later returning as head coach in 2001. His work in middle school football has helped lay a strong foundation for athletes as they transition to the high school level, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
As a coach for the 2025 All State Game, Ellison will bring his signature offensive strategies and leadership style to a group of talented young athletes eager to showcase their skills. His extensive background as an offensive coordinator, head coach, and mentor will provide these athletes with invaluable insights and guidance, helping them reach new levels of performance.
Coach Ellison’s commitment to developing strong, well-rounded athletes has been a driving force throughout his career. His ability to adapt his coaching style to the needs of each team, combined with his passion for the game, makes him a perfect fit for the All State Game. The event, which brings together the best young talent from across the state, will benefit greatly from Ellison’s experience and expertise.
As the 2025 All State Game approaches, Coach Rodney Ellison’s presence on the sidelines will be a game-changer for the athletes under his guidance. His deep knowledge of offensive football, coupled with his years of experience building successful programs, will help these young athletes shine on one of the biggest stages of their football careers. With Ellison at the helm, the future of football in Tennessee looks brighter than ever.