New UNK receivers coach recruited away from alma mater, buys into Held’s message

KEARNEY, Neb. — One of UNK football’s top recruits won’t be strapping on a helmet this season.

Second-year head coach Ryan Held recruited Tyler Harris away from his alma mater to become the Lopers’ new wide receivers coach and passing-game coordinator.

Harris and his wife, Kailey, have moved from conference rival Emporia (KS.) State to Kearney. Harris was an all-conference receiver for the Hornets, became a graduate assistant and eventually elevated to receivers coach and recruiting coordinator.

He says he made the move north because he buys into Held’s message.

“He likes to help men grow," Harris said. "The same way that he helps his players grow into men and helps them mature, he wants to that for his coaches as well.”

“He’s a great character guy, he’s very knowledgeable of the game, wanted to be here and really be a part of helping us move this offense forward,” Held said.

In the fall, Harris coached a pair of receivers who recorded more than 1,000 receiving yards in the season. One of them, Jaylen Varner, has since transferred to Minnesota. UNK last had a 1,000-yard receiver in 2010.

Held is also looking to fill a graduate assistant position after Eric Lee’s departure. He says it’s possible he could have the spot filled by the start of spring practice, but it’s ok if it takes until the start of summer to find the right coach.