Florida Atlantic Parts Ways With DJ McCarthy
The Owls football program moves on from wide receivers coach DJ McCarthy following the team's recent game against Rice.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Football
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Florida Atlantic University has parted ways with wide receivers coach DJ McCarthy after his third stint with the program. Assistant quarterbacks coach Trent Vasey has been appointed as the interim wide receivers coach effective immediately.
Why it matters
The staffing change comes as the team looks to adjust its coaching direction mid-season. Head coach Zach Kittley initiated the transition to alter the staff structure for the remainder of the schedule.
The Owls currently hold a 5-2 overall record with a 2-1 mark in conference play. This compares to the Rice Owls, who sit at 1-7 overall and 0-4 within conference standings.
The players
DJ McCarthy
He is a football coach who previously served as the wide receivers coach for the Florida Atlantic University team.
Trent Vasey
He is a football coach who transitioned from his role as assistant quarterbacks coach to serve as the interim wide receivers coach.
Zach Kittley
He serves as the head coach for the Florida Atlantic University football program.
The details
Head coach Zach Kittley informed DJ McCarthy of the change in direction just two days after the game against Rice. Trent Vasey will transition from his previous role as assistant quarterbacks coach to lead the wide receivers group.
Timeline
2017: DJ McCarthy began his first stint at FAU.
2024: DJ McCarthy began his third stint at FAU.
October 2026: DJ McCarthy and FAU parted ways.
Season Trajectory
This mid-season adjustment reflects a growing trend of coaching staff volatility in college football as teams fight for standing. The change directly impacts the Owls' internal organization as they attempt to maintain their current 5-2 season momentum.
Fans and observers should watch for shifts in wide receiver usage and target distribution under interim coach Trent Vasey. The coaching change directly impacts the team's offensive preparation for upcoming conference matchups.
The takeaway
Mid-season staff changes are often used by programs to realign offensive strategies during the final stretch of the season. Fans can monitor the team's output in upcoming games to see how this transition influences on-field performance.
Further reading
For more on the team's development this season, visit the Football page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by FAU University Press.
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