University of the Incarnate Word Athletics

Braden Strauss is entering his third season at UIW, serving as the assistant linebackers coach. Strauss began his career in 2024 as the defensive graduate assistant for the Cardinals, a season in which they won the SLC title and went undefeated in conference play. During that year, Strauss helped develop All-Conference LB Mister Williams, who led the team in TFLs (13) and forced fumbles (5). 

In the 2025 campaign, Strauss mentored All-Conference LB Declan Williams and standout captain Dune Smith. Both players finished the season with 102 tackles, tying them for fourth all-time in single-season tackles at UIW. Williams received rookie camp invites from both the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles. 

As a player, Strauss spent three seasons at Baylor University playing linebacker. During the 2021 season, the Bears were both Big 12 and Sugar Bowl champions. He graduated from Baylor with a Bachelor of Science in Education.