Mortensen Appointed as UAB Head Football Coach

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Mortensen Appointed as UAB Head Football Coach

UAB Director of Athletics Mark Ingram has officially named Alex Mortensen as the eighth head coach of UAB Football. Mortensen, who was the offensive coordinator for the Blazers since 2022, previously served as the interim head coach during the second half of the 2025 season.

Alex Mortensen’s Vision for UAB Football

Expressing his enthusiasm, Mortensen remarked, “I love Birmingham, UAB, and this team. I look forward to building a successful program that represents our university and fans well.” He thanked the administration for its support and commitment to enhancing the program’s competitiveness.

During his tenure as offensive coordinator, UAB has averaged an impressive 415.6 yards per game. Furthermore, Mortensen guided the Blazers to a significant upset victory over the No. 22 ranked Memphis in his first game as interim head coach. This achievement underscores his capability and potential as a leader.

Coaching Background and Achievements

Before joining UAB, Mortensen spent nine years on the coaching staff at the University of Alabama, working under renowned coach Nick Saban. His experience includes assisting in three national championships, contributing to Alabama’s remarkable record of 115 wins against just 12 losses.

2012: Began coaching career at New Mexico Highlands as quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator.
Achieved national recognition with quarterback Emmanuel Lewis, who ranked second in Division II for total offense.
2025: Led UAB to a single-season school record for yards per game as offensive coordinator.

Throughout his coaching career, Mortensen has learned from top offensive strategists, including Lane Kiffin and Mike Locksley. His broad experience positions him as a promising asset for UAB Football.

Support from University Leaders

UAB President Ray Watts emphasized the significance of Mortensen’s appointment, stating, “Today marks an important step forward for UAB Football.” He praised Mortensen’s leadership and character, qualities that resonate with the UAB community.

Hatton Smith, chair of the UAB Athletics Foundation, noted the thorough process leading to Mortensen’s hire and expressed excitement about the future. He highlighted Mortensen’s capacity to achieve success under challenging conditions, as exemplified by defeating a ranked team and securing a crucial road win.

Next Steps for UAB Football

While the financial terms of Mortensen’s appointment are subject to the Board of Trustees’ approval, there are plans for increased resources aimed at enhancing UAB Athletics overall. Mortensen’s educational background includes a communications degree from the University of Arkansas and a master’s degree in Sport Management from the University of Alabama.

In other news, UAB Football fans can now purchase season tickets for the 2026 season. These packages cover all six home games, making them a cost-effective option for supporters. Details regarding pricing and benefits are available through the UAB Athletics Ticket Office.

Support the UAB Football Program

Fans and supporters are encouraged to contribute to the Competitive Excellence Fund, which is critical for sustaining the program’s resources. Engagement from the community will play a significant role in the growth and competitiveness of UAB Football.

To stay updated with UAB Football, fans can follow the team on social media platforms. Follow @UAB_FB on Instagram and X for the latest news and updates.