By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
OZARK — Carroll High School is welcoming back one of its own to lead the Eagles football program. Steve McLendon, a former NFL defensive lineman and Carroll alumnus, has been named the school’s new head football coach, returning to the community where his athletic career began.
McLendon, a 2004 graduate of Carroll High, was a four-year letterwinner under coach Rob Bennett. He earned first-team all-region honors as a junior and senior and finished his high school career with 324 tackles, including 64 for loss, and 12 sacks. He capped his senior year by being named MVP in football, basketball, and track, showcasing his versatility and athletic excellence.
After high school, McLendon played college football at Troy University and entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2009. He saw his first action in 2010 and went on to carve out a 13-year professional career, including stops with the Steelers, New York Jets, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Over 165 career games with 90 starts, McLendon recorded 276 total tackles, 13 sacks, 44 tackles for loss, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and one interception. In nine playoff appearances, he added 14 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble, highlighted by a Super Bowl championship in Tampa Bay.
Most recently, McLendon served on the coaching staff at Buford High School in Georgia, a program widely recognized as one of the nation’s elite. The team completed the 2025 season with a perfect 15‑0 record and a GHSA Class 6A state championship. Buford also earned the No. 1 ranking nationally in multiple high school football composite rankings and has consistently ranked among the top public school programs in the country. At Buford, McLendon focused on developing the defensive line while contributing to leadership and overall team culture.
“Ozark is where I was born and raised. To come back home is surreal,” McLendon said. “I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to coach at the very high school where I played. I am ecstatic about the chance to instill a different mindset and mentality — not just for the football program, but for the school and the community as well.”
McLendon’s hiring comes as Carroll seeks a fresh start following a challenging 2025 campaign in which the Eagles finished 1‑9. Athletic Director Chris Logan highlighted McLendon’s leadership and championship experience as key factors in the decision.
“Steve brings a wealth of experience from the NFL and top-tier high school programs,” Logan said. “He understands how to build a winning culture and mentor young athletes both on and off the field. We’re fortunate to have him leading Carroll’s football program.”
McLendon is expected to begin working with players and staff immediately as the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, bringing his journey full circle from hometown standout to NFL veteran and now back to Carroll High.
Image shared courtesy of Carroll High School.
