McMurry University Athletics

KJ Kelley joined the McMurry football staff as defensive backs coach in the summer of 2024.

Kelley completed his All-American playing career in 2023 at Howard Payne as a defensive back. He was the American Southwest Conference Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All-American (AFCA), All-Region and All-Conference. He finished the 2023 season with six interceptions, 93 tackles, 12 break-ups and two pick-sixes.
 
In his years at East Texas Baptist, Kelley was a D3Football.com All-American (Spring 2021) and a three-time All-ASC selection.
 
Kelley graduated from East Texas Baptist with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and completed his master’s degree in business from Howard Payne in 2024.
 
A native Abilenian, Kelley enjoys traveling, reading, watching movies and visiting MLB stadiums. He attends Hillcrest Church.