Brentson Buckner Becomes First Official Head Coach of the Charlotte Speed

The Charlotte Speed is pleased to announce Brentson A. Buckner as the first official head coach of the Charlotte-based professional indoor football organization, starting games in 2013.
Bucker was the 50th overall NFL draft pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1994. In his three years with the Steelers, Bucker started in two AFC Championship games as well as Super Bowl XXX. He was a key member of the BLITZBURGH DEFENSE that also featured Greg Lloyd, Kevin Green, Levon Kirkland, Chad Brown, and future NFL Hall of Fame member, Rod Woodson.
In 1997, Buckner spent one year in Cincinnati for Hall of Fame member, Dick LeBeau. He spent the years of 1998 through 2000 playing for the San Francisco 49ers. Buckner’s teammates were Jerry Rice and Steve Young, both Hall of Fame members, as well as Charles Haley, Terrell Owens, Bryant Young, Ken Norton Jr. and current Carolina Panthers coach, Ray Brown.
In 2001, Buckner joined the Carolina Panthers as a free agent. After a 1-15 season in 2011, Buckner alongside teammates Julius Peppers, Kris Jenkins, Mike Rucker, AL Wallace and Shane Burton, formed one of the best defensive lines in NFL History. They were the foundation of the Panthers’ run to Super Bowl XXXVIII. Buckner was also the team Captain of the 2003 Panthers team that reached Super Bowl XXXVIII.
Buckner’s last game in the NFL was the 2005 NFC Championship game against the Seattle Seahawks. He then retired, bringing an end to an impressive 12-year career.
“Brentson Bucker was a natural choice for the job and we feel honored to have him opn board for this new and exciting endeavor. Brentson brings keen football intellect to the table and can get the job done. Other than a long an notable career, Brentson has an impressive resume and natural ability regarding coaching. Brentson is also a Charlotte resident and family man. He is the ideal package and we couldn’t be more enthused”, said Charlotte Speed General Manager Mo Collins.