(WXYZ) — Wayne State has hired former Michigan running back Tyrone Wheatley as its new head football coach.
WSU interim athletic director Erika Wallace made the announcement on Thursday.
"I am looking forward to coming home, as they always say there is no place like home," Wheatley said in a release. "No matter where I have been, I've always tried to recruit the state of Michigan and the city of Detroit. I am pleased, honored and blessed to be back home and to coach at Wayne State University."
Wheatley, a native of Inkster, played at Robichaud High School in Dearborn Heights before a four-year college career at Michigan. He was a first-round draft pick and played 10 seasons in the NFL.
Wheatley has 16 years of coaching experience, including serving as Morgan State head coach from 2019-21 and spent the 2022 season as running backs coach for the Denver Broncos.
"I am beyond excited to welcome Coach Wheatley and his family to the Wayne State community," said Wallace. "Coach Wheatley has a passion for developing the student-athlete not only on the field, but off. His ability to mentor men, develop talent, and recruit will elevate our football program. I'm looking forward to watching his leadership as he guides our Warrior student-athletes into a new era."
