Rhodes College Athletics

Matt Ellis is in his second season as the Rhodes Defensive Coordinator, bringing a strong background in defensive coaching and a deep connection to the program as a former student-athlete.

Ellis returned to Rhodes College in February 2025, where he coordinates the Lynx defense while coaching the defensive backs and outside linebackers. In his first season, he helped develop two all-conference safeties, including a First Team All-SAA selection and one of the league’s leading tacklers.

A former Lynx himself, Ellis played at Rhodes from 2013 to 2016, starting 26 games at cornerback and contributing to the program’s 2013 SAA Championship team. His experience as a player at Rhodes provides a unique perspective and strong foundation as he now leads the defense.

Prior to returning to Memphis, Ellis gained coaching experience at Rice University, the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Benedictine University, and Millikin University, working primarily with defensive backs and special teams.