Garrett Casteel joined Ottawa University Arizona Football in February 2026 as the program’s Defensive Backs Coach and Special Teams Coordinator. Entering his 17th season in coaching, Casteel brings extensive collegiate experience in defensive development, recruiting coordination, and special teams leadership.
Casteel most recently returned to Eastern New Mexico University in 2025 where he served as Defensive Backs Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, and Recruiting Coordinator. He coached multiple All–Lone Star Conference selections and guided special teams units that ranked 16th nationally in net punting, 39th in punt defense, and ninth in kickoff defense.
Prior to ENMU, Casteel coached at the FCS level with Southern Utah University from 2023-24, working closely with the defensive unit and nickel position group. Southern Utah recorded a 7-5 campaign in 2024 with wins over UTEP and nationally ranked Central Arkansas while leading the conference in defensive touchdowns. In 2023, the Thunderbirds finished 6-5, closing with four straight victories and leading the conference in both interceptions and first downs allowed.
Casteel previously served on the Eastern New Mexico staff from 2020-22, helping coach multiple All-LSC honorees while the Greyhounds ranked among conference leaders in red-zone defense and defensive scoring. He also organized and directed regional football camps across the Southwest.
Before joining ENMU, Casteel worked at Sierra College (Calif.) from 2017-19 as cornerbacks coach before becoming recruiting coordinator and wide receivers coach. Sierra won consecutive Grizzly Bowl titles during his tenure. He coached All-American defensive back Will Brocchini and helped numerous student-athletes move on to Division I programs.
Casteel began his coaching career in California at both the high school and youth levels, including time at Loma High School, Folsom Youth Football, and Vista del Lago High School.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from California State University–Sacramento in 2015 and his master’s degree from Eastern New Mexico University in 2021.
