Earnest Wilson

Earnest J. Wilson, III has served as an athletic executive, head coach, and football operations leader with more than 35 years of experience spanning collegiate athletics and professional football.  

Wilson has served in several football related roles including Athletic Administrator, Head Coach, General Manager, Director of Football Operations, Recruiting Coordinator, and Player Personnel Director across several NCAA programs and professional organizations. 

Throughout his career, Wilson has demonstrated experience in student-athlete development, recruiting and retention, program operations, NCAA compliance, fundraising, budgeting, NIL strategy, and personnel management. He has coached and mentored numerous athletes who advanced to the NFL and professional leagues, while also developing future coaching leaders at the collegiate and professional level. 

Wilson has held leadership roles at institutions such as Temple University, Savannah State University, Elizabeth City State University, New Mexico State University, Defiance College, and Minnesota North College, and currently serves at Edward Waters University overseeing football operations, development, and recruiting. He is recognized for building competitive cultures, improving academic performance, and generating external support for program growth—including securing $1.5 million in funding for football program enhancements. 

In addition to his coaching and administrative achievements, Wilson is an experienced collegiate instructor who has taught a wide range of sports management, health, and leadership courses. He is also deeply committed to service, having supported organizations such as the Special Olympics, Habitat for Humanity, the American Diabetes Association, and multiple civic outreach initiatives.