Lori Locust has made history as one of the few women to break into the male-dominated world of the National Football League (NFL). As a trailblazing coach, she’s shattered stereotypes, proven her expertise, and inspired countless others to chase their dreams, regardless of societal expectations. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Passion for Football
Born and raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Lori Locust developed a love for football at an early age. She wasn’t content to simply watch from the sidelines; her goal was to be directly involved in the game. However, like many women of her generation, opportunities to play or coach football were scarce.
Locust’s athletic career began in semi-professional women’s football, where she played as a defensive lineman. Her time on the field gave her firsthand experience of the game’s intricacies, building the foundation for her future coaching career.
Journey to Coaching
After her playing days, Locust set her sights on coaching, a path that was far from easy. Coaching in football has long been considered a male-dominated arena, but Locust was undeterred. She began by coaching at the high school and semi-professional levels, where her dedication and football IQ stood out.
Her big break came when she joined the Baltimore Ravens’ staff as an intern during their training camp in 2018. This opportunity was part of the NFL’s initiative to provide coaching fellowships for women and minorities. Locust seized the chance to prove herself, demonstrating her ability to coach and communicate effectively at the highest level of the sport.
Making History with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
In 2019, Lori Locust made headlines when she was hired by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an assistant defensive line coach. This made her one of the first two full-time female coaches in NFL history, alongside Maral Javadifar, also hired by the Buccaneers the same year.
Under head coach Bruce Arians, known for his commitment to diversity and inclusion, Locust quickly proved her worth. She became an integral part of the coaching staff, working closely with players and contributing to the team’s defensive strategies. Her expertise and work ethic earned her respect from players and fellow coaches alike.
Her role with the Buccaneers culminated in a historic Super Bowl victory in February 2021, when the team defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV. Locust became one of the first female coaches to win a Super Bowl, a moment that underscored her impact on the sport.
Current Role with the Tennessee Titans
In February 2023, Locust joined the Tennessee Titans as a defensive quality control coach. In her first season, she worked with the outside linebackers, helping players like Denico Autry achieve career-high performances.. Her impact on the Titans’ defense has been significant, continuing her legacy of excellence and innovation in coaching.
Coaching Philosophy and Impact
Locust’s success is rooted in her deep knowledge of the game and her ability to connect with players. She emphasizes fundamentals, discipline, and mental toughness, traits that resonate with athletes at all levels. Her experiences as a player give her unique insights into the challenges athletes face, helping her build strong relationships with the players she coaches.
Beyond her technical expertise, Locust is a role model for women and girls who aspire to careers in football or other male-dominated fields. She has become a symbol of perseverance, showing that barriers can be overcome with hard work, passion, and determination.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Lori Locust’s career has paved the way for a more inclusive NFL. Her presence on the sidelines is a powerful reminder that football is not just a man’s game—it’s a sport for anyone with the talent, knowledge, and drive to succeed. Locust often speaks about the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for women in sports, advocating for a future where diversity is the norm rather than the exception.
A Legacy in the Making
Lori Locust’s journey from a small-town player to an NFL trailblazer is a testament to her resilience and love for the game. As one of the first full-time female coaches in the league, she has opened doors for others and challenged traditional norms in professional football. Her story is far from over, and her influence will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the NFL. For aspiring athletes and coaches everywhere, Lori Locust is proof that no dream is too big when paired with determination and hard work.
Learn more at: https://www.tennesseetitans.com/team/coaches-roster/lori-locust
The Sport Lady has been a lifelong sports enthusiast. She believes that sports have the power to unite people, create common bonds, and foster shared experiences. As a wife and mother of sports lovers, she is passionate about her favorite teams and cherishes every opportunity to watch them play. For her, every day is game day!