Former Maryland and Virginia Tech running backs coach is apparently headed for the same role at USF.
Although as of this writing there has been no official release on this by the university, Brooks tweeted a photo of himself in a Bulls shirt and visor and adjusted his bio to read "University of South Florida Asst. Coach."
University of South Florida! Let’s Gooo! 🤘🏾😎😤 pic.twitter.com/zTCzBp1uYF
— Elijah Brooks (@CoachEBrooks) December 26, 2025
He spent the lasts three seasons at Virginia Tech after four seasons at Maryland. The Hokies averaged 182.4 rushing yards per game this season.
During his four seasons at Maryland, a Terps running back earned an opportunity in the NFL, including Anthony McFarland (Pittsburgh), Javon Leake (NY Giants), Jake Funk (LA Rams) and Tayon Fleet-Davis (Kansas City Chiefs). Funk and McFarland were drafted while the other two were signed as free agents.
Brooks played at William & Mary from 2004-06, where was the team's sixth all-time leading rusher, and a year at Kent State.
He also served as the head coach of high school powerhouse DeMatha Catholic, where he was 72-20. He got that job when he was just 27 years old.
Hartline has previously added seven assistants, including offensive coordinator Tim Beck and defensive coordinator Josh Aldridge.
Other coaches already announced include:
Chad Creamer, Special Teams Coordinator/Outside Linebackers Coach. He is a holdover from Alex Golesh's staff and, like Hartline, is a graduate of Ohio State.
James Rowe, Defensive Pass Game Coordinator/Safeties Coach. He is a USF graduate and also coached the last three years with the Bulls.
Terry Braden, Defensive Line Coach. A graduate of Tuskegee, he spent last season as the defensive line coach at Nebraska and also spent eight years in the NFL and was part of three Super Bowl championship teams with Kansas City.
Mike Hartline, Quarterbacks Coach. At the University of Kentucky, he played quarterback who passed for 5,680 yards and 38 touchdowns. He is Brian Hartline's brother.
Danny Verpaele, Safeties Coach. He played safety for USF from 2004-08. He spent the last three seasons in the same role at Army and also served as defensive coordinator at Kennesaw State and Valdosta State.