Herm Edwards Reaffirms Student-First Philosophy in Passionate ASU Press Conference
TEMPE, Ariz. — In a press conference held on the Arizona State University (ASU) Tempe campus, Herm Edwards delivered a powerful and heartfelt message that transcended the typical sports headline. Known for his leadership, charisma, and unrelenting dedication to the development of student-athletes, Edwards used the platform not to tout wins or recruiting classes, but to double down on what he calls his “non-negotiable priority” — putting students first.
With the Arizona heat bearing down outside, Edwards brought his own fire inside the press room. Flanked by university officials, staff, and a mix of media and supporters, he spoke with conviction about the evolving landscape of college athletics and the crucial need to keep student welfare at the forefront.
“This isn’t about school colors. This isn’t about what the scoreboard says,” Edwards declared. “This is about shaping young men and women for life. Athletics is the classroom, and our job as coaches is to teach, guide, and empower.”
Edwards emphasized the importance of mental health, academic integrity, and life skills—areas he believes are too often sidelined in the high-pressure world of college sports. He pointed to ASU’s ongoing initiatives to support student-athletes holistically, including expanded mentorship programs, leadership workshops, and enhanced academic support services.
“We’ve got players with dreams bigger than football,” he said. “If they make it to the NFL, great. But what about the ones who don’t? What are we doing to prepare them for that? That’s where my heart is.”
The former NFL head coach and ESPN analyst has long been celebrated for his emphasis on character and discipline. At ASU, his coaching tenure has been as much about life lessons as it has been about playbooks. And while critics may point to wins and losses, Edwards remains steadfast in his mission.
“Don’t measure our success just by records. Measure it by the lives we impact.”
In a college sports world increasingly consumed by NIL deals, transfer portals, and playoff berths, Edwards’ message felt like a timely—and necessary—reminder of what college athletics can still stand for.
