Josephrebuilding Gramblingwhilebattlingcurrentcollegefootballclimate

Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, July 31st 2025 at 22:52 GMT by KTAL Shreveport
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GRAMBLING, LA (KTAL/KMSS) - The world of college athletics has been a whirlwind since the Name, Image, and Likeness legislation was passed in 2021. That's a storm that Grambling head coach Mickey Joseph is now facing as he tries to rebuild the Tiger football program. "Whoever has the most money, usually wins. Whoever has the [ ]

Joseph Rebuilding Grambling While Battling Throat Cancer

GRAMBLING, La. – In the sweltering heat of northern Louisiana, where the echoes of legendary coach Eddie Robinson still resonate through the storied football program at Grambling State University, a new chapter is being written by a man facing the fight of his life. Mickey Joseph, the interim head coach of the Grambling Tigers, is not just tasked with revitalizing a program that has seen its share of ups and downs in recent years. He's doing it while undergoing treatment for throat cancer, a diagnosis that has tested his resolve but not diminished his passion for the game or his commitment to his players.

Joseph's journey to Grambling is a testament to his deep roots in football and his unyielding determination. A native of New Orleans, Joseph played quarterback at Nebraska in the early 1990s, where he was part of Tom Osborne's powerhouse teams. After a brief stint in the CFL, he transitioned into coaching, honing his skills at various levels, including high school, FCS, and eventually Power Five programs. His big break came at LSU, where he served as wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator under Ed Orgeron, contributing to the Tigers' 2019 national championship run. That success led to a role at Nebraska, his alma mater, where he stepped up as interim head coach in 2022 following Scott Frost's dismissal. Though his tenure there was short-lived, it showcased his leadership abilities and earned him respect across the college football landscape.

Now, at 56, Joseph finds himself at the helm of Grambling State, a historically Black university (HBCU) with a rich legacy. The Tigers, once a dominant force in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) under Robinson, who amassed 408 wins over 57 seasons, have struggled in recent years. The program has cycled through coaches, including Broderick Fobbs and Hue Jackson, with mixed results. When Jackson was let go after a disappointing 2023 season that saw the team finish 5-6 overall and 3-5 in conference play, Grambling turned to Joseph as interim coach. His mission: rebuild the roster, instill discipline, and restore the pride that once defined Tiger football.

But Joseph's arrival at Grambling coincided with a personal health crisis. In July, just as he was settling into his new role, he received the devastating news of his throat cancer diagnosis. The cancer, identified as squamous cell carcinoma, required immediate attention. Joseph underwent surgery to remove the tumor, followed by a regimen of radiation and chemotherapy. The treatments have been grueling, leaving him with side effects like fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and a raspy voice that sometimes makes it hard to bark out plays during practice. Yet, Joseph has refused to step away from the sideline. "This is bigger than me," he told reporters in a recent press conference, his voice strained but steady. "These young men need me, and I need them. Football has always been my therapy, and right now, it's what's keeping me going."

The rebuilding process at Grambling under Joseph has been multifaceted. On the field, he's focused on fundamentals, emphasizing a tough, physical brand of football that harkens back to the program's glory days. The Tigers' offense, which struggled last season, is being revamped with an emphasis on a balanced attack. Joseph, drawing from his experience coaching elite wide receivers like Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson at LSU, has prioritized developing the passing game while strengthening the offensive line. Defensively, he's brought in coordinators who stress aggressive play, aiming to create turnovers and control the line of scrimmage.

Off the field, Joseph's impact is even more profound. He's been instrumental in recruiting, leveraging his Louisiana ties and his reputation as a player's coach to attract talent. Grambling, like many HBCUs, faces challenges in the era of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the transfer portal, where bigger programs often poach top athletes. Joseph has countered this by emphasizing the unique cultural and historical significance of Grambling. "This isn't just about football," he says. "It's about legacy, community, and becoming men of character." He's organized team-building activities, community service events, and academic support programs to foster a holistic development environment.

Players have rallied around their coach, inspired by his resilience. Senior quarterback Myles Crawley, who transferred from Alabama State, describes Joseph as a father figure. "Seeing Coach fight through this, it motivates us every day," Crawley said. "He's out there with us, pushing through the pain, so how can we not give everything we have?" Defensive end Sundiata Anderson echoes this sentiment, noting how Joseph's transparency about his health has brought the team closer. "He's teaching us about life, not just football. Adversity hits everyone, but it's how you respond that matters."

Joseph's battle with cancer has also drawn attention to health issues within the coaching profession, where long hours and high stress are the norm. He's been open about his journey, using it as a platform to encourage others to get regular check-ups. "I ignored the signs for too long – the sore throat, the hoarseness," he admitted. "Don't make that mistake." Support has poured in from across the football world. Former colleagues like Orgeron and Nebraska's Matt Rhule have reached out, and even rivals in the SWAC have expressed well-wishes. Grambling's administration, led by President Rick Gallot, has been accommodating, providing Joseph with the flexibility needed for treatments while ensuring the program doesn't skip a beat.

As the 2024 season approaches, the Tigers are gearing up for a challenging slate. They open against Louisiana-Lafayette, a tough non-conference foe, before diving into SWAC play. Expectations are tempered, but there's an undercurrent of optimism. Joseph has the team practicing with intensity, often incorporating motivational speeches that blend football strategy with life lessons drawn from his cancer fight. "Every day is a gift," he tells his players. "Play like it."

Beyond the wins and losses, Joseph's story is one of perseverance. He's not just rebuilding a football program; he's rebuilding himself. The treatments are ongoing, with radiation sessions scheduled around practices and games. Doctors are optimistic about his prognosis, but the road ahead is uncertain. Still, Joseph remains focused on the present. "I'm not defined by cancer," he says. "I'm defined by how I lead these young men and what we achieve together."

In the broader context of HBCU football, Joseph's tenure at Grambling could serve as a model for revival. Programs like Grambling, Southern, and Jackson State have seen renewed interest thanks to figures like Deion Sanders, who briefly elevated Jackson State before moving to Colorado. Joseph, with his blend of experience and authenticity, might be the steady hand Grambling needs to reclaim its place among the elite.

As the sun sets over Eddie G. Robinson Stadium, where banners commemorate past championships, Joseph stands on the field, clipboard in hand, voice hoarse but commanding. His players hustle through drills, feeding off his energy. It's a scene that encapsulates the essence of college football – grit, community, and unbreakable spirit. For Mickey Joseph, the battle against cancer is intertwined with the battle to restore Grambling's glory. And in both fights, he's all in.

The road ahead will test him, but if his past is any indication, Joseph is built for it. From the bayous of Louisiana to the cornfields of Nebraska and back, his life has been a series of comebacks. Now, at Grambling, he's authoring perhaps his most inspiring chapter yet. The Tigers may not win every game this season, but under Joseph's guidance, they're learning to win at life – one practice, one treatment, one victory at a time.

Joseph's approach to coaching amid his health challenges has also influenced how he manages team dynamics. He's delegated more responsibilities to his assistant coaches, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers younger staff members. This has led to innovative strategies, such as incorporating analytics into game planning, a nod to modern football trends while honoring Grambling's traditional strengths.

Community involvement has been another pillar of Joseph's rebuild. He's initiated outreach programs, partnering with local schools to mentor youth and promote education through sports. This not only builds goodwill but also creates a pipeline for future talent, ensuring Grambling's sustainability.

Financially, the program faces hurdles common to HBCUs, including limited budgets and facilities. Joseph has been vocal about the need for more investment, advocating for alumni support and corporate sponsorships. His personal story has helped in fundraising efforts, drawing donations from supporters moved by his resilience.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on key matchups, like the rivalry game against Southern in the Bayou Classic. A strong showing could solidify Joseph's position beyond the interim tag, potentially leading to a permanent role.

In interviews, Joseph often reflects on his influences, crediting mentors like Osborne and Robinson's legacy for shaping his philosophy. "Coach Robinson built this place on hard work and integrity," he says. "I'm just trying to carry that torch."

Ultimately, Mickey Joseph's story at Grambling is about more than football or cancer. It's about human endurance, leadership in adversity, and the transformative power of sport. As he navigates treatments and timeouts, Joseph is proving that true strength comes from within – and from the team that stands beside you. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full KTAL Shreveport Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/joseph-rebuilding-grambling-while-battling-231514821.html ]

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Josephrebuilding Gramblingwhilebattlingcurrentcollegefootballclimate

Joseph Rebuilding Grambling While Battling Throat Cancer