Brad Lawing Obituary, How Did South Carolina Football Former Coach Brad Lawing Die?
by Mathelene
Updated Jun 16, 2023
Who is Brad Lawing?
Brad Lawing is a highly accomplished football coach who was born in Frankfurt, Germany and had an impressive collegiate career as a four-year starter at linebacker for Lenoir-Rhyne. He graduated in 1979 with a bachelor's degree and later earned a master's degree from Appalachian State in 1985. Lawing's outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized when he was inducted into the Lenoir-Rhyne Sports Hall of Fame in 2015.
Lawing's coaching career was marked by his exceptional recruiting abilities. Over the course of 17 years, he served as the recruiting coordinator at three different institutions: South Carolina (1989-1998), Michigan State (1999-2002), and North Carolina (2003-2005). His recruiting classes consistently ranked among the top 25, highlighting his talent for identifying and attracting promising talent.
One of Lawing's notable coaching positions was as the defensive ends and outside linebackers coach at Florida State under head coach Jimbo Fisher, starting in January 2015. During his tenure, Lawing played a key role in improving the team's sack total, leading the nation in sacks per game in 2016.
He was instrumental in developing standout players such as DeMarcus Walker, who achieved impressive statistics and received accolades like consensus All-American honors and ACC Defensive Player of the Year. Lawing also made a significant impact through his guidance of freshman defensive end Brian Burns, who led the nation in sacks.
Lawing's coaching prowess extended beyond his time at Florida State. Throughout his career, he had the privilege of working with renowned head coaches such as Steve Spurrier at South Carolina, Nick Saban at Michigan State, and Mack Brown at Appalachian State. His expertise in coaching defensive linemen was evident in the success of his players, including several first-round NFL draft picks such as Jadeveon Clowney, Dante Fowler, Dominique Easley, and Melvin Ingram.
Lawing's coaching tenure at South Carolina from 2006 to 2012 yielded impressive results. The team consistently boasted a formidable defense, leading the SEC in sacks in 2012 and setting a school record with 41 sacks in 2010. The Gamecocks achieved national recognition, ranking in the top 15 in total defense for five consecutive years from 2008 to 2012. Lawing's impact was evident as the team reached consecutive 11-win seasons in his last two years with the program.
Throughout his career, Lawing left an indelible mark on the players he coached and the programs he worked with. He was known for his ability to develop talent, his commitment to the game of football, and his dedication to recruiting. Lawing's contributions to the sport will be remembered, and his impact on the lives of his players and colleagues will endure.
Outside of coaching, Lawing enjoyed spending time with his family and had a deep passion for football and recruiting. His expertise and love for the game were evident in his work, and he will be remembered as a remarkable coach and mentor.
Brad Lawing Obituary
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the football community mourns the untimely passing of Brad Lawing, a revered figure and former South Carolina football assistant coach. Brad, known for his impactful presence on the defensive side, peacefully passed away in his sleep overnight on Wednesday.
The news of this tragic loss was shared by Wayne Parris, Lawing’s brother-in-law, who conveyed the sorrowful news through his Facebook and Twitter accounts on Thursday morning. The State later confirmed Brad Lawing's untimely demise at the age of 65. Lawing's coaching tenure spanned 17 seasons across two stints with the Gamecocks, during which he played an instrumental role in nurturing the talent of Jadeveon Clowney, guiding him to greatness.
The South Carolina football team expressed their profound grief, stating, “Our hearts are broken hearing this terrible news. Thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of a tremendous man and coach.” Returning to the coaching staff under the leadership of Steve Spurrier in 2006, Lawing's impact was undeniable.
He played a pivotal role in recruiting and mentoring Clowney, who would later become the top overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. Under Lawing's guidance, the South Carolina defense excelled, leading the Southeastern Conference in sacks in 2010 and 2012. The team consistently ranked in the top 15 nationally in total defense from 2008 to 2012, achieving back-to-back 11-win seasons in 2011 and 2012.
Throughout his esteemed career, Brad Lawing had the privilege of working alongside renowned head coaches such as Nick Saban (Michigan State), Steve Spurrier (South Carolina), Jimbo Fisher (Florida State), and Mack Brown (Appalachian State). More recently, he served as the defensive line coach for former South Carolina assistant Shawn Elliott at Georgia State.
However, Brad Lawing's impact extended beyond coaching. He was regarded as a great mentor and teacher of the game, leaving a lasting impression on those he worked with. Shane Beamer, the current head coach at South Carolina, spoke highly of Lawing's influence, emphasizing his invaluable contributions in pass-rush techniques and his willingness to share his wisdom.
In May 2023, Lawing made the difficult decision to step away from coaching due to health challenges, as he battled multiple ailments. His dedication to his well-being led him to resign from his position at Georgia State, focusing on his recovery and personal care.
Brad Lawing's untimely departure from the football community leaves a void that will be deeply felt. His passion for the game, coaching prowess, and ability to inspire will forever be remembered. His knowledge and guidance have impacted the lives of countless individuals, both on and off the field.
As we mourn the loss of this exceptional individual, let us extend our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched during his remarkable journey. May his soul find eternal peace.
How Did South Carolina Football Former Coach Brad Lawing Die?
Brad Lawing, a highly respected former football assistant at South Carolina, passed away in his sleep on Wednesday at the age of 65. Lawing dedicated a total of 17 seasons to the Gamecocks across two separate periods, establishing himself as a beloved fixture within the program. He played a crucial role in coaching and shaping the career of Jadeveon Clowney, who went on to achieve great success.
Lawing's contributions to the South Carolina football team were invaluable. He provided expertise and guidance on the defensive side of the game, leaving a lasting impact on the players and coaching staff. His untimely demise has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Brad Lawing's passing marks the end of an era, as his presence and influence will be sorely missed within the football community. The condolences and sympathies of the football world go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Brad Lawing Death
Former South Carolina football assistant Brad Lawing, a highly respected defensive coach who dedicated 17 seasons to the Gamecocks across two separate periods, passed away in his sleep at the age of 65. Wayne Parris, Lawing's brother-in-law, shared the heartbreaking news on social media and confirmed Lawing's death to The State.
The South Carolina football team expressed their sorrow, offering condolences and describing Lawing as a tremendous man and coach. In May 2023, Lawing made the difficult decision to step away from coaching due to health challenges, resigning from his position at Georgia State to focus on his recovery and personal well-being.
Brad Lawing's sudden departure from the football community has left a void that will be deeply felt. His love for the game, coaching expertise, and ability to inspire will always be remembered. As we mourn the loss of this exceptional individual, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched during his remarkable journey. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Brad Lawing Obituary - FAQs
Brad Lawing, a highly respected former football assistant at South Carolina, passed away in his sleep.
Brad Lawing was born in Frankfurt, Germany.
No, Brad Lawing did not play in the NFL. He had a successful coaching career instead.
Lawing primarily worked as a defensive line coach, specializing in coaching defensive ends and outside linebackers.
Yes, Brad Lawing was known for his recruiting abilities.