Former Gamecock Duce Staley on the Move to Clevland

South Carolinas Football program continues to see players and coaches have success in the NFL and Duce Staley is on the Move to the Browns.

Duce Staley explains why he left Lions for Panthers | Charlotte Observer

Former South Carolina Gamecock running back Duce Staley is set to move from Charlotte to Cleveland as he takes on the role of running back coach for the Cleveland Browns. Staley, who the Philadelphia Eagles drafted in the third round of the 1997 NFL Draft, has enjoyed a successful career both as a player and now as a coach, making waves in the football world with his expertise and dedication to the sport.

Staley’s career in the NFL has been nothing short of remarkable. As a player, he displayed exceptional skill and determination, earning the respect of fans and fellow teammates. His time as a player included a notable stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers, during which he achieved the pinnacle of success by winning a Super Bowl ring. Staley’s experience as a player has undoubtedly provided him with valuable insights and knowledge that he now brings to his coaching career.

Transitioning from the field to the sidelines, Staley has proven himself a capable and influential coach. His coaching journey has included a championship-winning stint with the Philadelphia Eagles, further solidifying his reputation as a coach with a winning mindset and the ability to inspire and develop talent. Staley’s dedication to the game and his players has been evident throughout his coaching career, earning him the admiration and respect of those he has worked with and mentored.

Staley’s move to Cleveland marks the beginning of a new chapter in his coaching career. Joining the Browns as their running back coach, Staley brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. This move will see him take on the challenge of guiding and developing the Browns’ running backs, utilizing his expertise to help them reach their full potential on the field.

WATCH: Throwback To Duce Staley The Running Back - Sports Illustrated Cleveland Browns News, Analysis and More

Staley’s move to Cleveland will mark his fifth team as a running backs coach in just over a decade. As Staley prepares to take on this new role with the Cleveland Browns, there is no doubt that his presence will be felt both on and off the field. His leadership, passion for the game, and commitment to excellence will make a significant difference in the development and performance of the Browns’ running backs. Cleveland fans can look forward to witnessing the positive impact that Staley will undoubtedly have on the team as he embraces this exciting new opportunity.

Joe Flacco Sounds Off on Bills Safety Damar Hamlin’s CPOY Controversy

Cleveland Browns quarterback Joe Flacco believes there is one player truly deserving of the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award — and it isn’t him.

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin was named as a finalist for the league’s honor, which came just a little more than a year after he suffered cardiac arrest on the field after taking a hard hit to the chest in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. While the award led to some controversy among fans who pointed to Hamlin’s limited role on the field this season, Flacco threw his support behind the Bills safety.

Joe Flacco Shares Praise for Damar Hamlin’s Journey
In an appearance on the “Zach Gelb Show” on CBS Sports Radio on January 26, Flacco said he believes Hamlin is the most deserving of the award among the finalists.

Joe Flacco Wins 2023 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award - BVM Sports

“For sure,” Flacco said. “I just think mentally to get yourself back to the point where you feel comfortable doing that kind of thing, obviously the physical part doesn’t need any explanation, but the mental part, especially at his position, is pretty cool.”

Hamlin was seen as the frontrunner throughout the season, but it drew controversy when he was named as a finalist as some fans didn’t believe he had a big enough role on the Bills to be deserving. Though he started 13 games in 2022 as the Bills lost Micah Hyde to a season-ending neck injury, Hamlin returned to a reserve role last season and appeared in only three games.

Flacco was seen as a popular pick for Comeback Player of the Year after joining the Browns in December and throwing for 1,616 yards and 13 touchdowns through six starts. He helped lead the Browns to a playoff berth.

While Flacco said he didn’t see himself as a comeback player given that he was unsigned through the majority of the season, he said he was happy to be nominated for the honor.

“Anytime you’re getting recognized in this league for playing well it’s flattering. It’s a cool group to be a part of, that’s for sure,” he said.

“I’m just coming back from being old and not being on a team for a couple months.”

Former Ravens QB Joe Flacco Had Other Offer Before Joining Browns

Bills Safety Snags Another Honor

Hamlin has already taken home one honor this season, being voted the Comeback Player of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America. The organization praised Hamlin for the work he put in to return to the field, recalling how the Bills safety spent a week in the hospital after the incident before being flown back to Buffalo for further treatment.

Hamlin was cleared to return to football activities in April 2023, and was able to participate in the team’s training camp and preseason. He ultimately earned a spot on the final 53-man roster, playing mostly on special teams when he did take the field.

Hamlin could have the chance to return to a bigger role next season, as Hyde has an expiring contract. His wife shared a goodbye to Bills fans, hinting that he could either be headed to a new team or to retirement.