The Roc is back! Auburn football has made a significant move in strengthening its coaching staff by bringing back Roc Bellantoni, who previously served as the Tigers’ edge rushers coach and special teams coordinator during the 2022 season. Bellantoni’s return to Auburn was confirmed on Wednesday, as he replaces Josh Aldridge, who left to take up the role of defensive coordinator at East Carolina on December 18.
Bellantoni, whose coaching career spans nearly three decades, expressed his gratitude and excitement for rejoining the Auburn program. In a statement, he said, “I am so thankful to Coach Freeze for allowing me the opportunity to return to the Plains. I thoroughly enjoyed my previous time at Auburn. I am excited and can’t wait to get back to work. Auburn is a special place with special people. I look forward to doing my part to help Coach Freeze succeed. I believe in Auburn and love it!”
While Bellantoni’s return to Auburn may seem like a familiar homecoming, his coaching career has been anything but static. This marks his 18th different coaching position in a career that began in 1993. His coaching journey has spanned numerous teams and roles, adding layers of experience that will be invaluable to the Auburn football program. Bellantoni’s coaching philosophy and expertise in edge rushers and special teams will undoubtedly play a key role in helping to bolster Auburn’s defensive line under head coach Hugh Freeze.
Here are three important things to know about Bellantoni as he returns to Auburn:
1. A Proven Coach with Extensive Experience
Bellantoni brings nearly three decades of coaching experience to the table, making him one of the most seasoned and well-rounded coaches on Auburn’s staff. His coaching career started in 1993, and since then, he has gained significant experience coaching at a variety of schools and positions. He has coached at several major football programs, including Florida Atlantic, Buffalo, Villanova, Eastern Illinois, and Drake, which all add to his broad skill set. Each of these positions has contributed to shaping Bellantoni into a versatile coach capable of excelling in multiple coaching roles.
Before his first stint at Auburn, Bellantoni was defensive coordinator at Florida Atlantic, where he was instrumental in improving the Owls’ defense. His time with FAU allowed him to develop a strong understanding of defensive schemes and how to work with linebackers, edge rushers, and special teams—skills that directly align with the responsibilities he’ll take on during his return to Auburn.
Bellantoni’s coaching resume also includes working with several high-level players over the years, which has earned him respect across college football. His extensive background ensures that he is prepared for the challenges he will face as Auburn continues to build on its foundation under Hugh Freeze.
2. Specialization in Edge Rushers and Special Teams
During his previous time at Auburn, Bellantoni was tasked with coaching edge rushers and serving as special teams coordinator. This dual responsibility allowed him to fine-tune his focus on areas that are crucial to the overall success of a football team. The defensive edge players, particularly the rushers, are often key to disrupting opposing offenses, and Bellantoni has a proven track record of helping players perform at the highest level.
Auburn’s defensive line will undoubtedly benefit from Bellantoni’s expertise in coaching edge rushers. This role requires not only technical skills but also the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and disrupt offensive plays. Bellantoni’s previous success in coaching this position, both at Auburn and other schools, highlights his ability to develop players who can impact games from the defensive side of the ball.
Additionally, Bellantoni’s work as a special teams coordinator brings a unique advantage to Auburn. Special teams often go unnoticed, but their impact on the outcome of games is immense. Field goals, punt returns, kickoffs, and other special teams situations can shift the momentum of a game in an instant. Bellantoni’s experience in this area will allow Auburn’s special teams unit to be highly effective, which could provide the Tigers with an edge in tight contests. Whether it’s improving field position or executing successful coverage, Bellantoni’s attention to detail will be invaluable in ensuring Auburn’s special teams play a significant role in the team’s overall success.
3. Familiarity with Auburn’s Culture
Bellantoni’s previous tenure at Auburn means he is already well-acquainted with the program’s culture, expectations, and the environment surrounding the Tigers. Having previously served under former head coach Bryan Harsin, Bellantoni has a good understanding of the team’s dynamics, the SEC, and what it takes to succeed in the tough conference. While Auburn has undergone significant changes since his first stint, Bellantoni’s familiarity with the culture will allow him to hit the ground running in his new role.
Moreover, Bellantoni’s statement about Auburn being a “special place” underscores his deep connection to the program. His excitement about returning to work at Auburn highlights that he values more than just the coaching responsibilities; he also respects the tradition, community, and people surrounding Auburn football. This cultural connection will be key as Bellantoni builds relationships with his players and works alongside Hugh Freeze to push the program forward.
As Auburn football continues to navigate a competitive landscape in the SEC, the return of Bellantoni is a key step in rebuilding the Tigers’ defense and special teams. His previous experience, leadership, and commitment to Auburn’s values will make him a crucial asset in the coming seasons. While he may be returning to a familiar place, Bellantoni’s renewed energy and drive to contribute to the program will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on Auburn football for years to come.
In summary, Roc Bellantoni’s return to Auburn as the defensive edge coach marks a new chapter in his long and accomplished coaching career. His proven expertise in coaching edge rushers and special teams, combined with his familiarity with Auburn’s culture, positions him to play a pivotal role in the team’s success. With a wealth of experience, a passion for Auburn, and a history of success, Bellantoni’s return will undoubtedly bolster the Tigers’ defensive unit and make them a more formidable team on the field in 2025 and beyond.
