Michigan State University Athletics
Grantham Accepts NFL Coaching Position
6/21/1999 12:00:00 AM | Football
February 15, 1999
EAST LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State defensive coordinator Todd Grantham, who was promoted to that position a month-and-a-half ago, has resigned to become defensive line coach with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts, MSU head coach Nick Saban announced Monday. Grantham replaces Greg Blache, who recently was named defensive coordinator by the Chicago Bears.
The 32-year-old Grantham served as the Spartans' defensive line coach the last three seasons (1996-98). Twice during his brief tenure, Michigan State ranked among the NCAA leaders in rushing defense (24th in 1997 and 22nd in '96) and total defense (13th in '97 and 19th in '96). In 1998, MSUs defensive front produced 47 tackles for losses (159 yards), including 22 sacks (115).
"Todd Grantham did a good job in developing our defensive linemen and obviously, I thought he deserved the opportunity to serve as the defensive coordinator," Saban said. "We wish Todd the best of luck in Indianapolis."
"It was a tough decision to leave Michigan State because I had developed a close relationship with Coach Saban," Grantham said. "I'll always be indebted to him.
"I met a lot of good people here at Michigan State and grew close to the players, coaches and others in the community. I'll always be a Spartan fan. It was a difficult choice but I've always wanted to coach in the NFL. This is an unbelievable opportunity. I feel very fortunate to get this chance, especially so early in my coaching career. Hopefully, this will only enhance my ability to develop in this profession.
"I'm excited about going to Indianapolis because it's an ascending team. Indianapolis has two proven individuals running the franchise, in Bill Polian and Jim Mora. The Colts are rebuilding but they have the quarterback of the future in Peyton Manning. And I'm looking forward to the challenge of helping the Colts improve on the defensive side of the football."
Grantham, a Pulaski, Va., native previously spent six seasons under Frank Beamer at Virginia Tech (1990-95), the last two years as defensive line coach.
