Frank Okam, playing for LHHS in 2003, with Coach Lynn Jensen
Franklin Okam, known affectionately as Big Frank when he dominated the gridiron at Wildcat Stadium, has been hired as defensive line coach for the Carolina Panthers. He coached Baylor University’s D-line for the last two years under the leadership of Head Coach Matt Rhule and will follow Rhule to Carolina and the NFL.
Okam graduated in the top 5 percent of his LHHS class in 2004 and was a starter for the 2005 University of Texas Longhorn team that won the national championship. He was drafted by the Houston Texans and later played for the Seahawks and Bucs. He coached the defensive line at Rice while earning a master’s degree.
Over the past week, rumors that Okam might join the University of Texas coaching staff had Longhorn fans elated. ESPN’s David Smoak reported that Okam did interview with his alma mater but opted to join the NFL instead.
Beneath the photo: “Franklin Okam #65. Hey Coach Jensen, I just want to say thanks for the 3 years you helped mold me into the player that I am with more opportunities to get better next year. I appreciate all the love and support you have me. ‘It’s been a pleasure.'”
Frank Okam coaching at Baylor
