Bio

Braden Long enters his third season as the Wide Receivers Coach and Director of Football Operations at Kentucky Christian University. A former collegiate wide receiver, Long brings a detailed, relationship-driven approach to developing student-athletes and contributing to a high-performing offensive unit.

In his two seasons at KCU, Long has helped elevate the passing game while developing six All-Conference receivers and tight ends, along with two NCCAA All-Americans, including Derrell Simmons, Dejon Winburn, Eli Archer, Jovari Gamble (2x), Jason Cobb, and Jalen Briscoe. Under his guidance, the offense has set multiple school records, including completion percentage (58.9%), passing yards (3,129), and receiving touchdowns (34).

Long also leads the kick return unit, which has become one of the most productive groups in the NAIA. In 2024, the unit ranked first in the conference and third nationally in total return yards (1,131), while finishing third in the NAIA in kick return touchdowns. He coached Dejon Winburn to First Team NCCAA All-American honors and helped both Winburn and Nehemiah Williams produce two of the top three return averages in program history.

A native of Alabama who was further shaped by South Florida’s competitive football culture, Long played four years of collegiate football as a wide receiver at Indiana Wesleyan University and Kentucky Christian University. His playing experience continues to influence his coaching philosophy, particularly in the areas of preparation, discipline, and attention to detail.

He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration from KCU in 2025 and is committed to developing players through mentorship, discipline, and faith.