Gilbride spent the previous year at UNC Charlotte as an offensive analyst following a 12-year tenure in the NFL. Returning to BYU also meant returning to recruiting, which he hadn’t done since his time as receivers coach at Temple in 2009.
“It’s always challenging. You’re competing with other top-tier schools, but at BYU, we have a unique product and a culture that Coach Kalani continues to foster daily — we showcase that to recruits,” Gilbride explained. “We aim to give them a clear picture of who we are and what we offer, and then they make their decision.”
Sitake frequently highlights BYU’s church sponsorship and honor code as advantages for the football program, rather than hindrances. Gilbride agrees.
“We want every recruit to understand this is our identity. It’s a special place. You decide if it’s right for you,” he emphasized. “We’ll demonstrate everything we can do to support your development and integrate you into our family culture.”
Last week, BYU secured commitments from two three-star prospects, Tucker Kelleher and Jackson Doman, both joining the Cougars’ 2025 recruiting class as tight ends.
In addition to his coaching expertise, Gilbride brings a unique credential to BYU — he’s the sole coach on staff with a Super Bowl ring. His father served as offensive coordinator for the Giants during their 2012 victory over Tom Brady’s Patriots, where Gilbride himself worked the game from the press box as a quality control coach.
Despite this achievement, Gilbride rarely displays his Super Bowl ring.
“It’s a beautiful piece, and I’m immensely proud of it, but I’m also cautious about wearing it too often,” he admitted. “I wore it once to a friend’s wedding because he requested it. Some of the tight ends have asked about it, too.”
