For Cedric Thornton, coming to Tennessee State as associate head coach and linebackers coach is about more than football—it's about family, legacy, and a lifelong bond with Reggie Barlow.

Thornton, who has previously held head coaching roles and built programs at multiple levels, described his bond with TSU head coach Reggie Barlow as lifelong. "Family, look out for family. My Lord and I, we've known each other since we were 18 years old. He's a brother to me, always will be a brother to me," Thornton said. When Barlow reached out to bring him to TSU, Thornton said it was impossible to ignore the call.

Being named associate head coach at a university with the storied history of John Merritt was meaningful on multiple levels. "It means a lot. It means my head coach sees something in me and the leadership passing. This school has a lot of history. My father-in-law, my mother-in-law, both went to school here. Father-in-law played ball here. It probably means more to them than it does to me because now their grandson gets to come be around," Thornton said. While the title carries prestige, he emphasized that his focus is on serving wherever needed. "The title's a title. I'm a football coach. I just do whatever the boss man asks me."

Thornton's connection to TSU runs beyond coaching; it is personal and familial. "I'm a guy, man, and I love our schools. I'm an HBCU guy. I love our schools. Like I said, it just means a little bit more because I have some family ties to the university," he said. Walking through campus, Thornton sees the history and legacy of those who came before him—from John Merritt to Coach Gilliam and countless others—reinforcing the sense of responsibility he feels as a coach and mentor.

For Thornton, the presence of alumni and community members at games and practices carries more weight than any paycheck. "I can go to work for a dollar, but their presence means a lot. Just to see those guys get the encouragement from them, it means a lot," he said, reflecting on the volunteers and alumni who devote time and energy to support TSU athletes.

Thornton also sees the role of the community in fostering team spirit and connection. "With the history of this school, with all the great things and people that have been through here, I don't understand how it can be hard to get behind them. The moment we get to the point to realizing that, regardless of who's standing on the sideline, those young men are still wearing blue and white… support them," he said. He noted that even though TSU is not his alma mater, he stands respectfully during the alma mater and daily recitations of the Tiger Creed as a sign of reverence for the university and its traditions.

As TSU football enters a season with a first-year staff and eight home games, Thornton sees an opportunity to strengthen the bond between players, coaches, alumni, and fans. For him, returning to a place intertwined with his family and lifelong friendships is a reminder that coaching is about more than wins and losses—it's about legacy, community, and family.