INDEPENDENCE, Kan. - In just his third full year of coaching, young rising football coach Milton Adams will join Coach Donerson's staff in 2026 as the Wide Receivers Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. 

Originally from Milledgeville, Georgia, Adams was a standout Linebacker where he earned All-State honors and signed to play at Mississippi Valley State, the same college as NFL Hall of Fame Wide Receiver Jerry Rice. Adams competed for the Delta Devils for four seasons before transferring to Shorter University for his final year. 

Following his collegiate playing career, Adams returned to his alma mater, Baldwin High, to begin his coaching career as he was in charge of Defensive Backs. He transitioned well to the coaching side, so much so that he was hired at the collegiate level at Highland Community College as a Defensive Backs Coach. 

At Highland, Adams hit the ground running, having success in his one season with the Scotties, coaching a secondary that registered 12 interceptions and 25 pass break ups and had a player honored on the all conference team. By the end of the season, Adams was thrusted into an Interim Defensive Coordinator role, helping him to gain crucial play-calling experience against high level teams such as Hutchinson and Iowa Western. 

Adams will shift to the offensive side of the ball here at Independence, showcasing his versatility in his coaching abilities. Pirate fans can expect to see high energy, and a focus on connection and player development from Adams, as he will play a big role in recruiting and program building with the Pirates.