In a significant move for both Mike Mickens and the Baltimore Ravens, the talented secondary coach from Notre Dame is making the leap to the NFL. This transition marks an exciting opportunity for Mickens to showcase his skills at a higher level of competition.
Reports indicate that Mickens will be joining the coaching staff of the Ravens, working under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Jesse Minter. This news was first reported by Tyler Horka, highlighting Mickens’ rising profile in the world of football coaching.
Since joining the Notre Dame program in 2020, Mickens has quickly made a name for himself as a premier developer of defensive talent. In his inaugural season, he played a crucial role in helping transfer cornerback Nick McCloud secure a spot on the All-ACC Third Team. The following year, Mickens continued to demonstrate his coaching prowess by transforming Clarence Lewis and Cam Hart into reliable starters for the Irish.
One of Mickens' standout achievements came in 2022, when he successfully guided Benjamin Morrison—a player who joined the program in June—to become a Freshman All-American. This honor marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time since 2012 that a Notre Dame player earned such recognition.
Thanks to his effective coaching, Mickens was promoted to serve as the secondary coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Under his guidance in 2023, Notre Dame boasted one of the top pass defenses in college football, allowing an impressive average of just 5.4 yards per attempt and ranking among the best in total passing yards surrendered.
The success didn’t stop there; in 2024, Mickens once again proved his mettle by developing Leonard Moore into another Freshman All-American. Moore’s outstanding performance earned him both the FWAA Freshman Defensive Player of the Year award and the College Football Network Freshman Cornerback of the Year title.
Additionally, Mickens had a pivotal role in the development of Xavier Watts, who became a two-time second-team consensus All-American during the two seasons Mickens worked closely with him. Over this period, Watts recorded an impressive 13 interceptions, showcasing the effectiveness of Mickens’ coaching techniques.
Perhaps the most notable highlight of Mickens’ career thus far is his work with Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner while at Cincinnati. His guidance helped Gardner achieve Freshman All-American status, subsequently leading to Gardner being selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
As Mickens embarks on this new chapter with the Ravens, he will reunite with former Notre Dame players Kyle Hamilton and Alohi Gilman, adding a layer of familiarity to his new role.
MICKENS FILE
- 2011: Cincinnati - Defensive Assistant
- 2012: Indiana State - Defensive Assistant
- 2013: Idaho - Cornerbacks Coach
- 2014-17: Bowling Green - Cornerbacks Coach
- 2018-19: Cincinnati - Cornerbacks Coach
- 2020-22: Notre Dame - Cornerbacks Coach
- 2023-26: Notre Dame - Cornerbacks/Defensive Pass Game Coordinator
Are you eager to keep up with all the latest updates regarding the Fighting Irish? Don’t miss out—sign up for our newsletter and consider becoming an ISD Premium Subscriber!
Also, check out the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 12'' x 12'' 3D Logo Wall Art here.
Join our free email list today!
