Yale football head coach Tony Reno has stepped down for health reasons, just months after leading the Bulldogs to a Football Championship Subdivision playoff win, the school announced on Tuesday.
“Given my current health situation, I have made the decision to step down as head coach of Yale Football,” Reno, 52, said in a release. “When I arrived at Yale 14 years ago, I could never have imagined what this journey would become. The relationships formed, the moments shared, and the people I have been privileged to be surrounded by have changed my life and my family’s lives forever. I am deeply grateful to the players, the coaches, and the staff who gave everything they had to Yale football.”
Specifics on the health issues were not disclosed. Reno took a medical leave of absence after the season ended in December.
Reno led Yale to five Ivy League championships over his tenure, with an 83-49 record, the second most wins in school history. The Ivy League allowed its champion to play in the FCS playoffs for the first time last season. The Bulldogs beat rival Harvard to win the conference title, then rallied from a 35-7 halftime deficit to beat No. 15 seed Youngstown State. They finished ranked No. 13 nationally.
Reno joined the Yale staff in 2003 as wide receivers coach and spent six years as an assistant. Following three years on the Harvard staff, Reno returned to Yale as head coach in 2012. His son, Dante, transferred in from South Carolina last offseason to play quarterback for his dad.
Dad, you are my role model, my best friend and my coach. I love you so much. The last 15 years you have been the best head coach I have ever seen. From your first year to playing with you last year, you have put your heart and soul into coaching. Your legacy will last forever. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/kftWSdrtIP
— Dante Reno (@dantereno10) February 17, 2026
Yale did not name an immediate replacement for Reno, saying the school will conduct a national search for its new coach.