Lane Kiffin, the head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels, has a history of making scholarship offers to the children of NFL heroes, frequently at a young age. While president of Florida Atlantic University (FAU), Kiffin gave scholarships to several young athletes with illustrious football backgrounds.
Kaden Martin is the son of Tee Martin.
Kiffin offered a scholarship to 13-year-old Kaden Martin, the son of Tee Martin, a former NFL quarterback and current USC offensive coach. Kaden was a seventh-grade quarterback at Adams Middle School in Redondo Beach, California, and a standout left-handed pitcher in baseball. Tee Martin confirmed the offer, pointing up Kaden’s athletic versatility and ability in both sports.
Cole Leinart: The son of Matt Leinart
In 2018, Kiffin made waves when he offered a scholarship to 11-year-old Cole Leinart, the son of former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback Matt Leinart. Cole, a sixth-grader measuring 5-foot-7, impressed Kiffin, who had previously coached Matt Leinart at USC, with his strong arm in flag football. The offer, albeit unexpected given Cole’s young age, demonstrated Kiffin’s understanding of his potential.
Pierce Clarkson is the son of Steve Clarkson.
Kiffin’s tendency continued in 2017, when he gave a scholarship to Pierce Clarkson, a seventh-grade quarterback and the son of legendary quarterback coach Steve Clarkson. Pierce had only finished sixth grade, and Kiffin’s early offer demonstrated his aggressive commitment to recruiting young athletes with excellent football backgrounds.
These examples demonstrate Kiffin’s unorthodox recruitment techniques, which include focussing on young athletes with renowned football pedigree before they reach high school.