Collette V. Smith, First Black Woman to Coach in the NFL, Reflects on Her Journey with Todd Bowles and Inspiring the Next Generation
Collette V. Smith made history in 2017 when she joined the New York Jets as a coach under head coach Todd Bowles. Her path to the NFL began with the New York Sharks, a women’s professional football team where she played defensive back. That experience gave her knowledge and confidence to step into an NFL practice field.
What started as an invitation to watch practice quickly turned into something bigger. Smith noticed alignment issues and defensive details that others overlooked. Bowles, known for his strong defensive mind, saw her insights and respected her voice. Soon after, he asked her to officially join his coaching staff.
“I was supposed to be a spectator,” Smith recalled. “But when I saw mistakes on the field, I spoke up. Coach Bowles noticed and said, ‘I think you should work for this organization.’”
Smith remembers the exact moment Bowles offered her the position. The call was short but life-changing.
“But when I got the phone call from Coach Bowles, I remember where I was standing. He said, ‘Coach Collette…what are you doing this summer?’ I answered, ‘Whatever the New York Jets need.’ That’s when he told me he wanted me as one of his coaches.”
Her role was proof that preparation meets opportunity. Years of playing football, studying the game, and believing in her abilities all came together in that moment. For Smith, it wasn’t just about coaching—it was about showing young women that their dreams could lead to real places on the biggest stages.
Before her coaching journey, Smith attended Tuskegee University. Those three yearsshaped her confidence, identity, and outlook on life. She recalls her time on campus with pride, describing the friendships and culture that continue to inspire her.
“At Tuskegee, I learned the power of community and culture. It still excites me to this very day,” she said. “The yard was full of energy, history, and pride. It gave me strength I carry with me now.”
Her time at Tuskegee helped prepare her not only for football but also for leadership roles later in her career.
Today, Smith continues her mission to empower young people with her new book,Collette’s Courage. The book encourages readers to be bold, believe in themselves, and pursue dreams without fear.
“This book talks about courage and the right people supporting you,”Smith explained. “As a little girl, I loved football, but it was scary to ask the boys to play. With the support of my best friends, I found my courage. That’s the message I want young readers to take away.”
Her story is about more than football—it is about using your voice, finding strength in community, and never letting fear silence ambition.
