A Homecoming for a Southern California Native
Rashaad Penny, the former NFL running back known for his dynamic play at San Diego State and a six‑year professional career, has been appointed head coach of the Jordan Panthers football program in North Long Beach. His hiring marks a full‑circle moment for a player who grew up in the region and starred at nearby Norwalk High School.
At Norwalk High, Penny became a legend, rushing for more than 100 touchdowns and guiding the Lancers to a CIF‑SS title‑game appearance. Those achievements set the stage for a collegiate career at San Diego State University, where he earned All‑American honors as a running back and kick returner.
The Seattle Seahawks selected Penny in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, and he spent six seasons in the league, including a standout 2021 campaign in which he amassed 749 rushing yards and six touchdowns. Throughout his professional tenure he also contributed to the Philadelphia Eagles’ roster.
Beyond the NFL, Penny founded the Norwalk Vikings youth football program in 2021 and served as its president for three years, underscoring his commitment to developing talent in his hometown. His brother, Elijhaa Penny, a former NFL fullback, will join the coaching staff at Jordan High, continuing a family tradition of football involvement.
Penny’s coaching philosophy blends old‑school fundamentals with new‑school analytics, a balance he says will be reflected in the composition of his staff. He emphasizes the importance of surrounding himself with the right people to translate his playing experience into player development.
He will take over from Alfred Rowe, who stepped down after a single season, and inherits a program eager for stability and growth. By leveraging lessons learned from mentors such as Pete Carroll and Nick Sirianni, Penny aims to build a competitive, community‑driven team that reflects both his Southern California roots and his NFL pedigree.