Kevin Bracken

Bio

Kevin Bracken enters his first season as the program's assistant coach/defensive coordinator in 2024-25. Bracken was officially hired to the position on February 5, 2024.

In his first season with the Gulls, Bracken's defense finished the season ranked third in scoring defense, fourth in passing yards allowed, fourth in defensive passing efficiency, seventh in red zone defense, 11th in yards per play, t-25th in turnovers gained, and 44th in 3rd down defense across NCAA Division III.

The Gulls also led the conference in all of the previously mentioned categories, along with finishing first in rushing defense and sacks. After the season, four members of the defense were named to All-Region teams, one member was a D2/D3 Writers Selection, one member was named the CNE Defensive Player of the Year, and nine were All-Conference selections.

For his efforts, Bracken was named the 2024 Hansen Ratings All-Region I Defensive Coordinator of the Year.

Bracken joins the staff from John Carroll University (D3) where he served as the program's defensive coordinator/linebackers coach last season.

While at John Carroll, Bracken was responsible for coaching/mentoring the defense, creating/developing relationships with student-athletes, holding daily meetings with the defensive unit/linebackers, installing weekly game plans, creating drills, and film review.

Bracken also mentored the assistant coaches on staff, served as the communication liaison to the medical staff for the student-athletes within the program, and coordinated official visits. 

Last fall, John Carroll posted an 8-2 overall record (8-1 OAC) marking the fourth time in five seasons the Blue Streaks have tallied eight or more victories in a campaign.

Bracken's defensive unit registered the following NCAA Division III national rankings (238 programs): fourth down conversion defense (4th), scoring defense (53rd), total defense (58th), first down defense (62nd), and rushing defense (67th).

Notable coaches to come through John Carroll's football program include NFL Hall of Famer Don Shula and former Las Vegas Raiders head coach Josh McDaniels.

John Carroll also has produced several NFL general managers highlighted by Nick Caserio and Chis Polian, among others.

Prior to his time at John Carroll, Bracken spent five years at Bucknell University (FCS).

His duties over time included defensive line coach, linebackers coach, and run game coordinator responsibilities. 

Bracken's other coaching stints include Villanova (FBS) and Franklin & Marshall (D3). 

Bracken graduated from Moravian College (D3) with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics and a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 2015.

He was a three-year starter at linebacker and captain of the program as a senior.

Bracken went on to play professional indoor football for the Central Penn Capitals of the American Indoor Football (AIF) league.