Taylor Mays Joins Washington Huskies as Safeties Coach, Strengthening Big Ten Aspirations
The Washington Huskies have made a high-profile addition to their coaching staff by hiring former USC All-American safety and assistant defensive backs coach Taylor Mays as their new safeties coach. Mays, who spent the last three seasons coaching at USC, brings elite playing experience and a rising coaching pedigree to a Huskies program now preparing for new challenges of competing in the Big Ten.
This hire underscores Washington’s commitment to building a championship-caliber program as they develop the second year into one of college football’s premier conferences.
Mays returned to USC in 2022, starting as a defensive analyst before being promoted to assistant defensive backs coach in 2024. During his tenure, he worked closely with defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn and defensive backs coach Doug Belk, helping to develop one of the more versatile and talented secondaries in the Pac-12/Big Ten.
One of his standout coaching achievements was mentoring cornerback Jaylin Smith. Initially utilized as a versatile defensive back, Smith flourished under Mays’ guidance as a full-time corner in 2024, drawing significant NFL attention. Mays’ ability to identify and cultivate talent has quickly made him one of the most promising young coaches in the country.
Though Mays is known for his expertise at the safety position, his work has extended across the entire secondary. “Naturally, you would think I would just want to be in the safety room, but I ended up gravitating more to the corners and working with the corners,” Mays said in November, reflecting his adaptable coaching style.
Washington’s move to the Big Ten last season places a premium on physicality, discipline, and depth—particularly in the secondary, where the Huskies will face elite offenses week in and week out. Mays’ experience as a three-time All-American safety and his growing reputation as a coach make him an ideal addition for Washington as they prepare to take on top-tier competition.
Mays also brings valuable recruiting connections in Southern California, a talent-rich area critical to the Huskies’ Big Ten ambitions. His ability to bridge Washington’s West Coast ties with its new Midwest competition will be a key asset on the recruiting trail.
Mays is the third coach to leave the Trojans following the 2024 season, joining former linebackers coach Matt Entz, now head coach at Fresno State, and offensive line coach Josh Henson, now offensive coordinator at Purdue. USC has been forced to reshuffle its staff, transitioning tight ends coach Zach Hanson to offensive line coach and hiring Chad Savage from Colorado State to coach tight ends and inside receivers.
While the Trojans adjust to their losses, the Huskies stand to benefit from securing a coach of Mays’ caliber. His blend of playing experience, coaching acumen, and recruiting prowess positions Washington to compete effectively in the Big Ten.
Taylor Mays’ arrival signals Washington’s intent to compete with the best teams in the Big Ten. His ability to develop players and connect with recruits aligns with head coach Jedd Fisch’s vision for the program. As the Huskies prepare for their inaugural Big Ten season, Mays’ expertise will be vital in helping Washington navigate its new conference and strive for success on the national stage.
For Husky fans, the hiring of Taylor Mays isn’t just a coaching move—it’s a statement of Washington’s ambitions in the Big Ten era. Mays is poised to make an immediate impact on Montlake.
