Mario Price is an accomplished American football coach, former player, and current Director of Education at the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA). With a career spanning from the playing field to the forefront of coaching education, Price has dedicated his life to the sport and the development of coaches nationwide.^[1]

Early Life and Education

Born on May 13, 1984, in Fort Worth, Texas, Mario Price demonstrated his athletic and academic potential early in life. He attended Keller High School, where he excelled in football, track, and basketball. As a senior, he rushed for 1,112 yards and scored 12 touchdowns, earning all-district honors as both a running back and kick returner. As a junior, Mario rushed 22 times for 208 yards and five touchdowns while earning all-district honors at cornerback as a junior in 2000 after recording 68 tackles and four interceptions. As a sophmore starter, he tallied 47 tackles and two interceptions en route to all-district honors. Beyond athletics, Price was a member of the National Honor Society and maintained A-B honor roll status.^[2]

Price began his collegiate football career at the United States Military Academy (Army) in 2002. He played as a cornerback, participating in all 12 games as a true freshman, recording five tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He also had seven kickoff returns for 108 yards.^[3]

In 2003, Price transferred to Baylor University, joining the football team as a transfer. After sitting out a year due to NCAA transfer rules, he contributed primarily on special teams and as a running back, eventually earning a scholarship. During his time at Baylor, he recorded 13 carries for 50 yards and 11 receptions for 72 yards and 14 tackles. He graduated in August 2006 with a degree in Health Fitness Studies.^[4]

Mario was named to the 2006 Academic All-Big 12 Team.^[5]

Coaching Career

Waco High School

Mario Price began his coaching journey at Waco High School in Texas, where he worked with running backs and quarterbacks from 2007 to 2009. Mario served as a PE Teacher at multiple schools within Waco ISD.

Texas A&M-Commerce

His transition to collegiate coaching came in 2010 when he joined Texas A&M-Commerce as the wide receivers coach. During his tenure, he developed two All-Lone Star Conference receivers, Kenzee Jackson and Taylor Fore.^[6]

Millsaps College

In 2012, Price became the wide receivers coach and video coordinator at Millsaps College in February of 2012. Durning the summer of 2012, he joined the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) as an offensive graduate assistant.

University of Louisana-Monroe

At ULM, he was to inside wide receivers coach for the 2013 and 2014 seasons and later served as the running backs coach and recruiting coordinator in 2015. During his time at ULM, Price coached five All-Sun Belt honorees, including two-time All-Sun Belt selection Rashon Ceaser.^[7]

Davidson College

In 2016, Price joined Davidson College as the running backs coach and special teams coordinator. His role at Davidson further showcased his ability to develop young talent and manage multiple facets of a football program.^[8] As special teams coordinator, Mario developed two Pioneer Football League All Conference players in Long Snapper Connor Mueller and Punter John Cook. ^[9]

American Football Coaches Association

Mario Price’s impact on football extended beyond the field when he joined the AFCA. As the Director of Education, he oversees professional development and educational resources for coaches at various levels, helping them advance in their careers and improve their coaching strategies.

Inside the Headset Podcast

In addition to his role at the AFCA, Price hosts the “Inside the Headset” podcast. This weekly podcast features interviews with football coaches from across the nation, discussing their careers, challenges, and insights into the profession. Available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, the podcast serves as a valuable resource for coaches seeking inspiration and practical advice. The podcast has become an integral part of Price’s mission to support and educate the coaching community.^[10]

Legacy and Impact

Throughout his career, Mario Price has embodied a commitment to excellence, both on and off the field. From his early days as a player to his current role as a leader in coaching education, Price’s contributions to football continue to resonate with players, coaches, and fans alike. His dedication to professional development through the AFCA and “Inside the Headset” ensures that his impact on the game will endure for years to come.