David Turner, a three‑time Mississippi State football assistant, announced his retirement on July 18, ending a coaching career that stretched over more than twenty years at the university.
Turner’s tenure at Mississippi State includes three distinct periods — 2007‑09, 2013‑15, and most recently 2023‑25 — during which he served as defensive line coach and, soon, as senior defensive line consultant under head coach Jeff Lebby.
A Career Spanning Two Decades
Over the course of his time in Starkville, Turner coached at several other SEC programs, including Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Alabama, Texas A&M and Florida, and he was credited with mentoring 15 NFL draft picks, among them Tennessee Titans first‑round selection Jeffery Simmons in 2019.
In a statement released to the press, Turner expressed deep gratitude for the relationships and experiences he gained at Mississippi State, thanking former players and colleagues for the lasting impact they had on his life and career.
Turner will transition to a senior defensive line consultant role for the 2026 season, a position that will allow him to continue shaping the Bulldogs’ defensive front while sharing his extensive knowledge with the next generation of coaches.
The university community praised Turner’s contributions, highlighting his role in developing talent and fostering a culture of excellence that extends beyond the field.