Former Tennessee Titans head football coach Zach Mettenberger is the new head football coach at Father Ryan High School in Nashville. Last season, Mettenberger served as the program’s offensive coordinator.
This will be the first head coaching job for Mettenberger, who started ten games for the Titans in 2014 and 2015. His coaching career began as the OC at Hillsboro in 2020. The Georgia native then moved to Father Ryan for a year in 2021 before serving as an offensive analyst for Nick Saban at the University of Alabama.
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve as a leader of Father Ryan’s historic Football program and foster the legacy of excellence created by those who came before me in this role, said Mettenberger in a news release from the school. “I look forward to working with the coaches to help our student-athletes become the best version of themselves and to continue developing a program that makes the entire Father Ryan community proud to cheer on the Irish.”
“I am confident that Coach Mettenberger will build upon the strong foundation established by the coaches before him, leading our student-athletes to new heights both on and off the field,” said Ann Mullins, Father Ryan’s Director of Athletics. “His passion for the game, commitment to developing young athletes, and leadership qualities make him the right person to guide our Football program into the future. With his experience and vision, I have no doubt that he will inspire our players, uphold the proud traditions of Father Ryan, and continue fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork.”
“Coach Mettenberger brings a wealth of experience to Father Ryan’s Football program from his time as a standout collegiate player at LSU to his career in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans, and his transition into coaching,” said Principal Francisco M. Espinosa, Jr. “His familiarity with our school and Football program, having served in multiple roles, gives him a deep understanding of our mission and values. Coach Mettenberger is a dedicated student of the game and has served as a formidable role model for our student-athletes. His passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly strengthen our program, and I am excited to see its continued growth and success under his leadership.”
Father Ryan finished 7-4 in 2024, advancing to the Division II-AAA state quarterfinals. After a 5-1 start, the Irish climbed to No. 286 in the High School Football America 300 national rankings, powered by NFL Play Football.
In high school, Mettenberger played at Oconee County High School in Georgia.
