Derek Rose joined the Millsaps football coaching staff as the inside linebackers coach in December 2021.
Prior to arriving in Jackson, Rose served as the University of Fort Lauderdale linebackers coach, recruiting and run game coordinator.
Before joining the college ranks, Rose began his coaching career in his hometown of New Orleans, La., at Landry-Walker High School. He served as linebacker’s coach from 2016-2018. While there he was a part of a 13-2, 5A State Championship team, which was the first title in program history.
From there he took over as defensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Sophie B. Wright Charter from 2018-2020. Rose helped guide the school to its first-ever winning season (6-4), district title and playoff appearance. In 2018, the defense gave up an average of seven points per game during district play.
Rose helped mentor a school record of eight players to be selected to the All-District Team with one earning District Defensive MVP.
Rose was a standout linebacker at Northwestern State. As a sophomore he was selected to the Phil Steele All-American Team. His 145 tackles ranked 14th Nationally and was the most at NSU since 1991. Rose became the first sophomore since 2000 (All-Pro Terrence McGee) to earn All-America honors when he was voted Team Defensive MVP by his teammates.
As a junior Rose was named to the Associated Press All-American team, a Buck Buchanan Award Finalist as well as a three-time Player of the Week. He was also voted team captain and again Defensive MVP by teammates.
In 2012, Rose was a named to the Preseason Buck Buchanan Award Watchlist, All-Conference and All-Louisiana team after 102 tackles, seven tackles for loss, four PBU’s and one forced fumble. He was again tabbed team captain and MVP by the team.
Following his time in Natchitoches, Rose played in the arena league (2014-2015). A native of New Orleans, La., Rose earned a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Northwestern State in December 2012.
