Fresno State Bulldogs head football coach Jeff Tedford will be stepping down from his position due to health issues.
The team posted a statement from Tedford on its X account Monday disclosing the news. =
“It is with sad emotions that following my recent medical check-up, it is clear that due to health concerns, my family and I have made the decision to step aside as Fresno State’s head coach and allow someone else to lead the football program,” Tedford said to open the statement before thanking the university, his players, and his coaching staff.
Fresno State also issued a statement Monday afternoon.
“Coach Tedford’s contributions to Fresno State and the Central Valley have been nothing short of extraordinary. His dedication, passion, and commitment have not only led our football program to numerous championships but also deeply impacted the community. Our goal during this coaching transition is to ensure it is as seamless as possible for our student-athletes, and to continue the championship culture that Coach Tedford has established. We are grateful for his endless contributions, wish him the best with his health, and I expect to lean on Coach Tedford during my transition due to his incredible insight and relationships,” Fresno State athletic director Garrett Klassy said.
Tedford played quarterback for the Bulldogs in 1981 and 1982, then spent a few seasons in the Canadian Football League before returning to Fresno State in 1992. He served as the team’s quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator until 1997 when he took the same position with the Oregon Ducks.
Tedford’s time with Oregon ended after the 2001 season when he was named the head coach of the California Golden Bears. He held that job for 11 seasons, leading the team to an 82-57 record and eight bowl games.
After his time with Cal ended, Tedford had stops with the BC Lions, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Washington Huskies before returning to Fresno State, this time as the head coach. First hired in 2017, Tedford resigned after the 2019 season, citing health issues, and was replaced by Kalen DeBoer. Upon DeBoer leaving for the Washington job, Tedford was named head coach for a second stint. He went 45-22 in his five seasons with Fresno State and won all four of the bowl games in which the team appeared.
Linebackers coach Tim Skinner will coach the Bulldogs for the 2024 season.