Corky Nelson

Who is Corky Nelson?

Corky Nelson is a former American football player and coach. He is known for his coaching stint at the University of North Texas, but was more successful on the high school level.

Nelson was an all-conference linebacker and center at Texas State University–San Marcos, where he was captain of the 1963 team that went undefeated. He began coaching at the high school level soon after his graduation, first at Alamo Heights High School as an assistant, then at Harlandale High School as head coach. He briefly got into the collegiate ranks as defensive line and linebacker coach at the University of North Texas, but left after one season.

In 1971, Nelson became head coach at John Tyler High School in Tyler, Texas. In 1973, he guided a Lions team that featured Earl Campbell to a perfect 15–0 season as well as the state championship in the largest classification. Nelson then became defensive coordinator under coach Grant Teaff at Baylor University. In 1982, he was named head coach at North Texas, succeeding Bob Tyler. He was also named the programs athletic director in 1989. Following the 1990 season, his contract was not renewed.