TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —— Florida A&M football made their first outside hire under James Colzie III, adding Henry Burris as the co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
“Having to try and fill the huge void that was left by Coach Simmons departure. I felt it was important to get someone who could step in right away and gel with our offensive staff,” said Colzie. “Coach Burris is an all-time great in the CFL (member of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame) who spent 18 years in the CFL and threw for over 63,000 yards where he’s currently 3rd all-time in passing yards and touchdowns. He’s a three-time Grey Cup Champion, two-time Grey Cup MVP, and a two-time CFL Most Outstanding Player. He also has NFL experience as a player (Bears and Packers) and as a coach, where he spent 2023 with the Los Angeles Rams, 2022 with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and 2020-2021 with the Chicago Bears. We needed to make sure we hit the mark on this hire, and Coach Burris fits right in with everything we are trying to do.”
“Joining the Florida A&M University staff isn’t just about football; it’s about FAMUly,” said Burris. “My wife, Nicole, and our boys, Armand, and Barron are thrilled to embark on this journey together. FAMU stands as a benchmark program and institution, renowned for its impact on both academics and athletics throughout history. We look forward to helping continue this trajectory, contributing our passion and expertise to uphold the legacy that has inspired so many. Together, we’re excited to contribute, grow, and build lasting connections as we embark on this new chapter with the Rattlers.”
With 18 seasons in the Canadian Football League (CFL), including two years in the NFL, Burris boasts an illustrious career highlighted by numerous accolades. He secured three Grey Cup championships, two with the Calgary Stampeders in 1998 and 2008 and one with the Ottawa Redblacks in 2016. His achievements include ranking third in all-time CFL regular season passing yardage, touchdown passes, and completions.
Burris claimed the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player Award in 2010 and 2015, further solidifying his legacy as one of the league’s greatest quarterbacks. Burris was also inducted into the CFL Hall of Fame in 2020. His contributions extend beyond the field, as evidenced by his active involvement in broadcasting and community initiatives.
Transitioning from player to coach, Burris has continued his commitment to mentorship and leadership development. His tenure as an offensive quality control coach with the Chicago Bears showcased his dedication to fostering a culture of growth and accountability. Burris’s impact on quarterback development, particularly with Trevor Lawrence, underscores his ability to impart valuable lessons gleaned from his storied career. As he embarks on this new chapter at Florida A&M University, Burris brings a wealth of experience, a passion for mentorship, and an unwavering dedication to shaping the next generation of athletes.
Burris finds joy in family life off the field, sharing his journey with his wife Nicole and their two sons, Armand and Barron. Nicole’s athletic achievements, including induction into the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame, underscore the Burris family’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Florida A&M names new recruiting coordinator
Florida A&M football Head Coach James Colzie III made another coaching move, adding recruiting coordinator to Marcus Windham‘s title.
“Marcus is the perfect candidate to help us continue this great recruiting ride here in Tallahassee,” said Colzie. “He will be adding new energy to our recruiting room and will work hand in hand with our director of recruiting, our director of on-campus recruiting, myself, and the rest of the staff.”
Windham enters his third season with the Rattlers. Under his leadership during the 2023 season, the Rattlers rushed for 1,795 yards and 24 touchdowns.
Windham coached the running backs group that had four rushers run for over 200 yards this past season. Jennings led the group with 673 yards and ten rushing touchdowns. Kelvin Dean (376 yards, three rushing touchdowns), Jaquez Yant(338 yards, seven rushing touchdowns), and Lelan Wilhoite (206 yards and one rushing touchdown) also contributed to the Rattlers’ rushing attack. Running back Kelvin Dean was named the 2023 Celebration Bowl Offensive MVP with 97 total yards and two touchdowns.
In 2022, the running backs group rushed for 1,042 yards and ten touchdowns.
Windham also coached at the 2023 Senior Bowl and serves as our NFL scouts liaison.