Joey Kiernan started at MSU for the 2024 season.

He coached outside linebackers his first two seasons and took on the ful scope of all the linebackers for 2026.

Kiernan played for four seasons at Birmingham Southern. He finished his career in top 10 in tackles (141) and was tied for the most career forced fumbles (4). He earned his bachelor's degree in accounting May 2024. 

A native of Cumming, Ga., Kiernan prepped at Pinecrest Academy, where he was a three sport athlete, earning four letters in football, two in baseball and one in wrestling. He was named All-State in football his senior season.