Pete Golding is not only fortifying Ole Miss’s football foundation on the field but also nurturing its roots deep within from within the Rebel family. Thursday, the Rebels welcomed back a true legend to their coaching staff: Hall of Famer and former Ole Miss lineman Terrance Metcalf. The program announced his return as an assistant offensive coach, offensive line assistant, and personnel assistant.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 315 pounds, Terrance Metcalf carved out a reputation as one of the most dominant linemen in Ole Miss history through a powerful combination of size, skill, and quickness. His accolades include being named a consensus First Team All-American in 2001 and earning First Team All-SEC honors twice. During his time at Ole Miss, he played a crucial role in leading the team to three bowl games—the 1997 Motor City Bowl, the 1999 Independence Bowl, and the 2000 Music City Bowl—and helped secure two final national rankings (No. 22 in both 1997 and 1999).
Metcalf lettered from 1997 to 2001 and started the first three games of his sophomore season before an ankle injury sidelined him for that year. Over five years with Ole Miss, he contributed to an impressive team record of 37 wins against just 22 losses. He was instrumental during Eli Manning’s first two seasons—a National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete—blocking for Manning as he set numerous school records with over 10,000 passing yards. Additionally, he paved the way for Deuce McAllister, who still holds school records for rushing yards (3,060) and all-purpose yards (4,889).
A standout performer in pass protection, Metcalf was recognized as a two-time First Team All-SEC selection (2000-2001) and earned the title of SEC’s Most Valuable Lineman in 2001 from the Birmingham Monday Morning Quarterback Club. His leadership shone brightly as he captained his team while allowing the fewest sacks in the SEC—just seven in 2000 and ten in 2001.
His contributions didn’t go unnoticed; Metcalf received multiple team awards including Co-Offensive Player of the Year from the Rebel Club of Jackson (1997), Clower-Walters Scholarship Award (2001), J. Richard Price Courage and Compassion Award (2001), and Birmingham Alumni Club’s Leadership Award. He showcased his talent at the prestigious Senior Bowl in 2002 as one of top NFL prospects.
Drafted by Chicago in the third round of the NFL Draft in 2002, Metcalf enjoyed a successful seven-season career with the Bears—including an appearance at Super Bowl XLI during their run to championship glory. Following his retirement from professional football, he turned his focus to coaching within Mississippi’s high school ranks at Oxford High School and Pearl River Community College before becoming head coach at Coahoma Community College back home in Clarksdale.
Beyond football, Metcalf has actively engaged with local communities through charity fundraisers and initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity alongside military outreach programs. As part of Ole Miss’s Rebel Reconnect program, he returned to complete his management degree—graduating in 2016—while also supporting his son DK Metcalf’s journey through Ole Miss; DK is now an All-Pro wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks.
Terrance Metcalf has been honored with inductions into both the Ole Miss Sports Hall of Fame and Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame (2021), along with recognition as an SEC Legend.
This week marks another milestone for Pete Golding’s coaching staff; not only does it include Terrance Metcalf’s return but also former Ole Miss safety Marcus Woodson joining to bolster defensive efforts ahead of key recruiting battles this spring.
As they say: when Mama calls, you always answer. Welcome home, Terrance!