Riverdale, GA – After winning just six games over the last three seasons, it became clear that the Riverdale Raiders needed a fresh start. The program’s struggles were evident on both sides of the ball, and the direction of the team demanded a major shift. That shift has officially begun with the hiring of Marcus McKinney (Coach Mac), who steps into the head coaching role after serving as an assistant on staff. McKinney replaces David Roberson and now faces the challenge and the opportunity of rebuilding a program hungry for better days.
A Program in Need of Overhaul
The Raiders’ performance in recent years showcased the need for a full reset. Riverdale finished the 2024 season with one of the county’s lowest-producing offenses, totaling just 118 points through ten games. Before their season-ending 32–0 win over Stone Mountain, the Raiders had not scored more than 20 points in any game, a stat that highlighted their lack of consistency and explosiveness.
Defensively, the struggles were equally glaring. Riverdale allowed 291 points to opponents, nearly 30 points per game, showing that issues existed at every level of the roster. The Raiders’ inability to get stops, paired with an offense that rarely sustained drives, left the team constantly playing from behind.
Recognizing the magnitude of the challenge, school leadership made it clear early in the offseason that a complete overhaul of both the offensive and defensive staffs would be necessary. Coach McKinney now leads that restructuring, aiming to bring in new voices, innovative concepts, and a culture capable of developing a competitive mindset.
The McKinney Era Begins
McKinney has already emphasized discipline, buy-in, and accountability as cornerstones for this new chapter. The mission is clear: restore pride in Riverdale football and reestablish the toughness and competitiveness the community expects.
Bright Spots Returning for 2025
Despite recent struggles, the Raiders are not without talent. Riverdale returns several standout players capable of becoming foundational pieces in McKinney’s rebuild.
• Delano Brown (Jr., OL/DL)
Brown is one of the most reliable and versatile players on the roster. A force in the trenches on both sides of the ball, he brings good size, strength, and leadership. His two-way presence gives the Raiders stability up front an area any successful program must build around.
• William Cochran Jr. (Jr., WR/DB)
One of the most dynamic athletes in Clayton County, Cochran Jr. is a playmaker wherever he lines up. His speed and ball skills make him a dangerous threat on offense, while his instincts in the secondary add critical support to the defense. Expect McKinney to feature him heavily in the new system.
• Zay’Vielle Younger-Jones (Soph., ATH)
Younger-Jones is one of Riverdale’s emerging stars. With big-play ability and versatility, he can line up as a receiver, defensive back, or special teams weapon. His growth heading into his junior year could make him one of the most impactful athletes in the region.
A New Direction and New Expectations
While a complete turnaround won’t happen overnight, the changes at Riverdale represent renewed hope. The Raiders now have a chance to rebuild their identity, energize the community, and develop the talent already in the locker room. With Marcus McKinney at the helm, a revamped coaching staff forthcoming, and young stars ready to break out, Riverdale enters the next chapter with optimism and clarity. After three years of frustration, the message is simple:
It’s time for a change, and that change has officially begun.
Photo Credit: Jamie Williams/ Perfect Capture Sports
