Former Power Five, HBCU assistant coach passes away

The HBCU community is mourning the loss of former Howard University assistant football coach Warren Belin, a respected leader whose impact stretched far beyond the sidelines. Belin, known for his passion for mentoring student-athletes and developing elite defensive talent, passed away at the age of 58, leaving behind a lasting legacy across college football and the HBCU sports world.

A seasoned coach with decades of experience, Belin brought leadership, intensity, and wisdom to every program he touched. During his time at Howard University, he played a key role in helping shape the culture of the Bison football program while mentoring young athletes on and off the field. Belin joined Howard’s coaching staff in 2020 and served as linebackers coach through 2024, earning the respect of players and colleagues alike for his discipline, faith, and unwavering commitment to development.

News of Belin’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from former players, coaches, and members of the football community, many remembering him as a coach who demanded excellence while genuinely caring about the growth of the young men he led. Whether in the locker room, on the practice field, or during team meetings, Belin’s influence was felt through his accountability, selflessness, and dedication to building character just as much as building talent.

The Howard University football team shared a heartfelt tribute to Belin on Instagram, honoring both the coach and the man behind the whistle.

“Sending our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and the entire HUFB community as we honor the life and legacy of Coach Belin,” the statement read.

“A true pillar of our program, Coach Belin walked in faith and led with purpose. Grounded in God, devoted to his wife and daughters, and committed to the game he loved, he was more than a coach. He was a teacher, a mentor, and a powerful example of what it means to show up as a man first and a football coach second.”

The tribute continued by highlighting the values Belin embodied every day.

“His life reflected his values: faith, family, and football, and you could see his walk with Christ in everything he did. Detail-oriented, selfless, and always willing to give back, he poured into every player who was willing to listen. His impact went far beyond the field, shaping young men through his character and the way he showed up for them every single day.

“He didn’t just build better football players, he built better men.

“Coach Belin’s legacy will forever live on within HUFB.”

Belin’s coaching journey also included stops at several powerhouse football programs, including his alma mater Wake Forest University, as well as the NFL, where he served as linebackers coach for the Carolina Panthers. During his time in Carolina, he helped develop one of the league’s top defensive stars, Luke Kuechly, who went on to earn NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Even while battling stage four pancreatic cancer, Belin continued to inspire those around him through his resilience and faith. Last year, Wake Forest honored him with the Pete Moffett Courage Award, recognizing the strength and perseverance he displayed throughout his fight.

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