Former Saints WR Joe Horn to Coach at Northeast

BOONEVILLE, Miss. (WCBI/NEMCC Athletics) – One of the most excitable and entertaining athletes in the National Football League’s (NFL) extensive history will be on the sidelines for Northeast Mississippi Community College this fall.

Joe Horn has been tabbed as the wide receivers coach for the four-time Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) North Division champion Tigers starting with the upcoming 2014 campaign.

(NFL)
Former Saints receiver Joe Horn joins the coaching staff at Northeast CC for the 2014 season.

“I grew up watching Joe play as a Saints fan and to be able to coach with him is an honor,” said Northeast head coach Ricky Smither. “He’s a guy that’s seen just about everything. He relates well with the kids and is a pleasure to be around.”

Horn, who broke or came close to setting multiple franchise records while with the New Orleans Saints, desires to pass along his vast knowledge of football to the Tigers’ young, but gifted receiving core.

“Once I got around the receivers and I saw that coach Smither could need a little help I was here,” Horn said. “It’s been exciting so far. As a coach, to see what you’re telling them transpire on the field in practices is awesome.”

Horn inked with New Orleans before the 2000 campaign and helped his squad complete a remarkable turnaround. The Saints claimed the National Football Conference (NFC) West Division title with a 10-6 record after winning only three contests the season before. He remained a viable part of the Saints roster through 2006. He averaged 15.5 yards per catch over his last two campaigns in New Orleans with five touchdowns.

The Fayetteville, N.C., native wrapped up his playing career in Atlanta with 27 receptions for 243 yards. He caught his final touchdown in the Falcons’ 44-41 victory versus Seattle in the 2007 season finale.

Horn is one of three wide outs to be added to the Saints Hall of Fame. He joins other esteemed individuals including Archie Manning and Deuce McAllister that have been forever enshrined by New Orleans.

“There’s no way this school can’t go to a bowl game if they believe within their hearts,” said Horn. “I’m excited to see how we’ll be.”

Still to this day, Horn donates time, energy and money to local charities in New Orleans and the Southeast. Horn is a successful entrepreneur as well and owns his own barbeque sauce company entitled Bayou 87.