Dalton Gifford commenced his tenure with the coaching staff of Fayetteville State University in March 2023. As the Offensive Line Coach and Run Game Coordinator in his second season with the Broncos, he has played a pivotal role in the team's development. During his inaugural season, Gifford's contributions to the offensive line were instrumental in securing the CIAA Southern Division Championship for the team. Notably, he mentored two standout players, Tyler Fleming and Michael Todd, both of whom received All-Conference honors. Additionally, Fleming was selected for the HBCU Legacy Bowl under Gifford's guidance.
Prior to his tenure at Fayetteville State University, Gifford served as a Graduate Assistant Coach for the Offensive Line at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Football program, contributing to the team's success as MEAC and HBCU National Champions in the 2022 season.
Gifford's coaching career took root at Sanderson High School in Raleigh, NC, where he started as an Assistant Coach for Tight Ends, Fullbacks, and Offensive Line in June 2019. His dedication and strategic acumen led to a promotion to Assistant Coach for Offensive Line and Run Game Coordinator in March 2021, culminating in Sanderson High School's top 25 state ranking in Class 4A and a subsequent playoff berth.
Gifford is an alumnus of the University of Connecticut in Storrs, CT, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Communications and Sociology. During his time as a Husky, he showcased his talent on the field, participating in 29 career games, including 11 starts, and earning a three-year letter-winner distinction as an offensive lineman.
Furthering his academic pursuits, the Barnstable, MA native obtained a Master’s degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Administration at North Carolina Central University, where he currently resides in Sanford, NC with his wife, Stephanie, and their son, Drake.
