T.J. Hollowell

Biography

T.J. Hollowell was added to coaching staff as the Demon Deacons Assistant Coach, Defensive Ends prior to the 2025 season. Hollowell brings in NFL playing experience and over 17 years of coaching experience at all levels. The Wake Forest defense made significant strides throughout the season, producing four interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries while showing marked improvement across every major statistical category. The Demon Deacons allowed nearly 10.5 fewer points per game compared to the previous season, surrendered more than 100 fewer yards of total offense per contest than in 2024 and nearly cut the number of passing touchdowns allowed in half. Wake Forest also reduced red-zone touchdowns by nearly 20 percent, reflecting a defense that consistently tightened in critical situations. Hollowell came to Winston-Salem from Nebraska, where he was the recruiting coordinator for the 2024 season. According to Rivals, the Cornhuskers brought in the No. 17-ranked class in 2024. Hollowell spent 2020-2023 with new Wake Forest defensive coordinator Scottie Hazelton at Michigan State, where the duo helped the Spartans cap the biggest turnaround in school history with an 11-2 record, a New Year's Six bowl victory over No. 12 Pitt in the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and a Top 10 national ranking (No. 8 coaches, No. 9 AP) in 2021. Prior to Michigan State, Hollowell was at Coastal Carolina working with the defensive ends and outside linebackers. Defensive end Tarron Jackson led the Sun Belt an