Tarleton State University has taken a major step in securing the future of its football program by extending the contract of head football coach Todd Whitten. Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Lonn Reisman made the announcement, confirming that Whitten has agreed to a six-year contract extension.
The new deal will keep Whitten with the Texans through the 2025 football season, pending approval from The Texas A&M System Board of Regents. This move reflects the university’s confidence in Whitten’s leadership as the program transitions to the Division I level.
“Coach Whitten has proven to be a winner and continues to excel in leading our student-athletes on and off the field,” said Reisman. “He’s won more football games than anyone else in Tarleton’s history and has over 20 years of coaching experience at the Division I level.”
Reisman emphasized that Whitten is the ideal leader to guide the Texans during this pivotal time of growth. His long-standing track record and deep connection to Tarleton have made him a cornerstone of the program’s identity.
Whitten holds the distinction of being the winningest head football coach in Tarleton State history. Over his 10 seasons at the helm, he has compiled an impressive 79 victories.
Since returning to Tarleton in 2016, Whitten has led the program to unprecedented success. The Texans have risen to national prominence, especially in their most recent seasons under his leadership.
In the past two years alone, Whitten’s Texans have secured back-to-back undefeated Lone Star Conference championships. This dominant performance has established the team as a powerhouse in Division II football.
During that stretch, the Texans compiled a remarkable 23-2 record. A total of 45 players received all-conference honors during this period, a testament to both recruiting and player development.
This two-year run is widely regarded as the most successful in the school’s football history. It represents a culmination of Whitten’s vision, work ethic, and deep commitment to excellence.
As he enters his 11th season leading the Texans, Whitten boasts a career record of 79-37 at Tarleton. His overall head coaching record stands at 104-65, including his tenure at Sam Houston State from 2005 to 2009.
With a career winning percentage of .686, Whitten ranks at the top among all coaches in school history with at least 60 games. His ability to sustain success over time has made him a respected figure in collegiate football.
Under Whitten’s guidance, the Texans have earned five NCAA Division II postseason berths. He was at the helm for four of those five appearances, making him the most successful playoff coach in the program’s history.
Among the program’s many milestones, 2018 stands out as a highlight year. That season, the Texans achieved a program-best 12 wins and reached the Super Region IV finals.
Whitten’s leadership has not only elevated the program but also brought a strong sense of pride to the Tarleton and Stephenville communities. His influence goes beyond the field, helping shape student-athletes into leaders.
“I’d like to thank Dr. Hurley and Coach Reisman for giving me this opportunity,” said Whitten. “I’ve coached all over the country at the Division I level, and I have no doubt that Tarleton State University can find success at the next level.”
Reflecting on his return to Tarleton in 2016, Whitten described it as a homecoming. “When I came back here five years ago, I said it was like coming home. The Tarleton and Stephenville community is my home,” he said.
Whitten’s connection to the university and its surrounding community has only deepened during his tenure. His leadership style blends experience, loyalty, and a deep belief in the program’s future.
Whitten earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Stephen F. Austin in 1987. He later earned a master’s degree in sports administration from Texas Tech University in 1990.
He resides in Stephenville with his wife, Dana. The couple has three sons – Tate, Brady, Blaze – and a daughter named Maddie, all of whom have grown up immersed in the football culture.
The Texans are now poised to begin their next chapter. Starting with the 2020 season, the team will compete at the NCAA Division I level in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), playing as an independent.
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