Kent State is bringing back a familiar face as O.J. Santiago joins Paul Haynes' staff as tight ends coach and special teams coordinator, the school announced on Friday by way of a press release.

Santiago had a nine-year NFL career and was a three-year letterwinner at Kent State from 1994-96 and an all-MAC selection at tight end.

"Our players were super-excited when they found out he was going to be the coach," Head Coach Paul Haynes said via university release. "He brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm. And when you put together his experience in the NFL, the fact that he put on this uniform and his time with the team last year, it really excites our guys."

Santiago had a taste of coaching during the 2016 season where he was a student assistant coach as he finished up his undergraduate degree coursework. Coincidentally enough, he worked with the tight ends and special teams during that time.

Kent State starts the season on September 2nd at Clemson, taking on the defending national champions. Kent State opens up its home schedule on September 9th against Howard.