Christopher Buckner was named Offensive Coordinator at Prairie View A&M University on January 14, 2025, bringing with him more than 14 years of collegiate coaching experience across all levels of the offensive side of the ball. A dynamic and innovative offensive mind, Buckner has developed a reputation for building explosive offenses and mentoring high-performing student-athletes.
Buckner arrives at Prairie View A&M after a successful second stint at Sam Houston, where he returned in 2023 to coach the Bearkat wide receivers. In his first season back, he helped guide Noah Smith to All-Conference USA honors and played a key role in the development of one of the conference’s most versatile receiving corps.
Buckner previously served with Sam Houston from 2020–2021, coaching running backs during a historic run that included the 2020 FCS National Championship and a 2021 quarterfinals appearance. His work with All-American running back Ramon Jefferson and All-Southland performer Noah Smith helped the Bearkats post one of the top rushing attacks in program history.
In 2022, Buckner was the outside receivers coach at Texas State, where he further enhanced his reputation for developing talent at the wide receiver position. His coaching experience spans nearly every offensive position group, including quarterbacks, running backs, tight ends, and wide receivers, and he has also held coordinator roles at multiple stops.
From 2016–2017, Buckner served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Western New Mexico. There, his offenses consistently ranked among the top 30 in the nation in passing and total offense, with multiple All-Lone Star Conference selections under his guidance—including standout receiver Xavier Ayers, the 2016 LSC Receiver of the Year and an AFCA First Team All-American.
Buckner also played key roles in offensive development at Arkansas State (2018), Southern Miss (2019), and North Carolina Central (2014–2015). While at NCCU, he helped the Eagles capture back-to-back MEAC championships, the program’s first since 1973. Earlier in his career, he served as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach at Savannah State (2013) and started his coaching journey at Jackson State, where he worked from 2010–2012. While there, he helped the Tigers win three straight SWAC East Division titles and mentored future NFL wide receiver Rico Richardson.
A native of Arlington, Texas, Buckner played both wide receiver and defensive back at New Mexico State from 2006–2009, appearing in 47 career games. He finished with 44 receptions for 359 yards as a receiver and added 46 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery on defense. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from NMSU in 2009 and participated in OTAs with the Dallas Cowboys in 2010 before beginning his coaching career.
Throughout his career, Buckner has coached three All-Americans and 17 all-conference players, contributed to multiple playoff and bowl appearances, and helped programs win two conference championships and an FCS national title. His experience, energy, and offensive versatility make him a vital addition to the Prairie View A&M coaching staff as the Panthers continue their pursuit of championship-level football.
