Tuesday, June 2, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Jimmy Burleson

Assistant Athletic Director

Dobyns-Bennett High School

T: (423) 378.8400 ext. 8490

E: [email protected]

Editor’s Note: Social media graphic & family photo of Daniel Kilgore attached.

KINGSPORT, Tenn. - Dobyns-Bennett High School is proud to announce the hiring of Daniel Kilgore as the new Offensive Coordinator for the Tribe football program. Kilgore, a 2006 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett, returns to his alma mater following a distinguished ten-year career in the National Football League (NFL) and a recent tenure as Head Football Coach and Dean of Students at Providence Academy in Johnson City, TN.

“Bringing Daniel back to the Tribe is a special moment for our school and community,” said Dobyns-Bennett Athletic Director Frankie DeBusk. “He is a proven winner who has competed at the absolute highest levels of football, from national championships in college to the Super Bowl. More importantly, Daniel understands the culture, tradition, and expectations of Dobyns-Bennett football. His professional experience and passion for mentoring young athletes will be invaluable to our student-athletes.”

Kilgore’s deep roots in Kingsport football began during his standout prep career at Dobyns-Bennett, where he was a three-year varsity starter at center, anchoring the offensive line and setting a standard for toughness and leadership.

Following his graduation in 2006, Kilgore earned a scholarship to Appalachian State University. There he became an essential part of an elite Mountaineer program under legendary head coach Jerry Moore, helping the team win back-to-back NCAA FCS National Championships in 2006 and 2007. By 2010, his dominant play earned him First-Team All-Southern Conference and All-American honors, while also making the athletic honor roll.

Kilgore was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round (163rd overall) of the 2011 NFL Draft. He spent seven seasons (2011–2017) with the 49ers, playing much of his early career under head coach Jim Harbaugh. He earned the starting role at center just prior to the 2014 season, and in 2017, he was designated as a team captain. That same year, he was the recipient of the prestigious Bobb McKittrick Award, which honors the offensive lineman who best exemplifies dedication, excellence, and commitment.

During his decade in the NFL, Kilgore played in 98 games, made 60 starts, and reached the pinnacle of the sport twice. He won the NFC Championship with San Francisco during the 2012 season (Super Bowl XLVII). He later served as a multi-year team captain for the Miami Dolphins during his two-season tenure from 2018 to 2019. He capped off his professional career by playing one season (2020) with the Kansas City Chiefs, capturing the AFC Championship under future Hall of Fame coach Andy Reid (Super Bowl LV). In recognition of his enduring impact on the game, Kilgore was inducted into the National Football Foundation Mountain Empire Chapter Hall of Fame in April 2026.

After retiring from the NFL, Kilgore transitioned into education and coaching, demonstrating his commitment to youth development. From 2022 to 2026, he served as the Head Football Coach, Dean of Students, and Weights Coach at Providence Academy in Johnson City, TN, where he successfully built and launched the school's entire football program spanning from youth to high school levels. Daniel currently resides in the Tri-Cities area with his wife Megan and their two daughters, Carson and Chandler.

“We are excited to have another former Indian great on the staff,” said D-B Football Head Coach Joey Christian. “To bring someone with a decade of NFL experience, as well as a National Championship in college, is not something to take lightly. Most importantly, though, Daniel is a person of high character and morals. He is the kind of person I would want coaching my son.”

Upon accepting the position, Kilgore provided the following statement:

“Coming back to Dobyns-Bennett after 20 years is truly special. This school and community helped shape who I am and I couldn’t be more excited for the opportunity to return and join Coach Christian, his talented staff, and work in the greatest facility, J. Fred Johnson Stadium!”

“Over the past two decades, I’ve been blessed to compete at the highest levels of football, from Appalachian State to 10 years spent playing in the NFL. Those experiences taught me that success is built on discipline, toughness, preparation, and a commitment to continued growth. My goal is to bring those lessons back to D-B and help our players to develop not only as athletes, but as young men.”

“Dobyns-Bennett has a proud tradition of excellence, and I am honored to be a part of it once again. I can’t wait for Friday nights in J. Fred, upholding that standard, and making the Kingsport community proud. As always, Roll Tribe!”

Dobyns-Bennett Football is set to enter its 106th season this fall, coming off a strong 10-2 record and back-to-back Big East Championships. The 2026 campaign kicks off at home against Knox Central on August 21, 2026. 

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