Warren acted as the co-defensive coordinator at UNC, working alongside Gene Chizik and Geoff Collins, and also served as the defensive backs coach and assistant head coach for defense. In 2023, the Tar Heels’ secondary recorded 12 interceptions, marking their best performance since 2019. Warren’s extensive 20-year career includes coaching roles at Georgia, Indiana, Florida, Tennessee, and a previous stint at Carolina. “I’m thrilled to be part of the incredible culture of toughness that Coach Doeren has established at NC State,” Warren said in a statement. “This is a fantastic opportunity to mentor young men, and I’m eager to get started with the Pack.”
At Georgia, Warren helped the Bulldogs secure two SEC East titles and participate in New Year’s Six bowls, contributing to one of the top defenses in FBS. In 2019, he played a significant role in the team achieving at least 11 wins for the third consecutive season. He was responsible for coaching defensive backs and special teams at Tennessee, where in 2017 the Vols boasted one of the SEC’s best defenses, allowing the second-fewest passing yards (1,950) and yards per game (161.7). During his initial two-year tenure at UNC, Warren was instrumental in the Tar Heels ranking among the top 10 for passing defense in 2016, with a remarkable drop of 14.5 opponent points allowed in 2015 compared to 2014, showcasing the greatest improvement among power programs. That season, Carolina led the ACC in interceptions, turnovers gained, and passes defended, conceding only 11 passing touchdowns while achieving an 11-3 record and a spot in the ACC Championship game.
“Charlton brings an abundance of coordinator experience from the SEC, ACC, and Big Ten and is recognized for being a relentless recruiter and developer of defensive backs,” Doeren stated. “He has long been on my radar due to his history of placing many players in the NFL during his coaching career and has received outstanding recommendations from respected coaches. I’m particularly impressed with his military background and his service to our country, and I am confident he will be a valuable addition to our staff.” Warren joins the coaching team following the appointment of DJ Eliot as the new defensive coordinator, succeeding Tony Gibson. Brian Mitchell will continue as the cornerbacks coach, and Charley Wiles will oversee the defensive line.
North Carolina assistant head coach for defense, Charlton Warren works with his unit during the opening day of spring football practice on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 in Chapel Hill, N.C. Robert Willett
Aughtry-Lindsay did not disclose specifics about his future plans, but he posted a statement on social media Thursday morning expressing his gratitude to players and coaches. “N.C. State is a unique place and will always feel like home to me,” said Aughtry-Lindsay, an alumnus. “I have truly enjoyed serving alongside the administration and football staff at this esteemed university, and I wish you all ongoing success in the days to come. To the current players, we will always be a Wolfpack family. It has been a privilege to coach and guide you.”
“In life, there are moments when growth and development necessitate change. How you adapt during these changes is one of life’s key aspects. My family and I have chosen to embrace this change for the advancement of my career.” While with the Wolfpack, Aughtry-Lindsay also oversaw the program’s Freshman Focus group, which aimed to introduce freshmen and new transfers to the university, its program history, and standards. Due to this role, Doeren noted that Aughtry-Lindsay developed a special bond with players throughout the program, not just within his own position group. His departure and the hiring of Warren could shed light on the recent surge of transfer portal announcements last week.
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