TEMPE — Arizona State was met with somber news this weekend following ASU’s tough game against Houston.
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Arizona State assistant football coach and special teams coordinator Charlie Ragle talks to the media at the Carson Student-Athlete Center in Tempe on Feb. 2, 2023. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
According to Sun Devil Source’s Chris Karpman, Arizona State assistant head coach and special teams coordinator Charlie Ragle has taken an immediate leave of absence from the program. Ragle has a longstanding health issue that worsened with stress tied to the team’s special teams struggles.
Special teams has been an area of emphasis for head coach Kenny Dillingham following last year’s performances from his kickers. Ragle’s experience in the role was a key reason he was brought back three years ago, and his departure now leaves a void in the program.
Nov 23, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils assistant special teams coordinator Matt Butterfield (left) with special teams coordinator Charlie Ragle against the Brigham Young Cougars at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
While the leave doesn’t mean Ragle has been fired or won’t return, the news reflects a broader story about the mental strain and physical demands of high-level coaching. His career has been built on excellence, and taking time away from the field signals his decision to prioritize self-care and recognize his own limits for the sake of his health.
Many ASU fans have already rallied behind the Sun Devil coach, offering kind words and support.
There’s always a human element we all forget. Praying for him and his family
— AZ Farmer (@az_farmer) October 27, 2025
Get well Ragle 🙏🙏🙏
— SunDevilASU (@SunDevilASU0) October 27, 2025
Damn, hope he’s okay. Prayers to him and his family
— Matthew Campion (@MattyCamps5) October 27, 2025
Sep 13, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils offensive lineman Rob Lapuaho (56) and Uriah Neloms (81) pregame against the Texas State Bobcats at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
ASU is already facing challenges, with several starters either sidelined or uncertain about their status. The team is reeling from a loss to Houston after upsetting Texas Tech the week before. With many questions still unanswered, this week will be a major test of the Sun Devils’ resilience.
Ragle was with the program in 2006 before returning in 2022, after previously serving as special teams coordinator at California and Idaho State. He also coached at Arizona and at several high schools in the Valley.
Assistant special-teams coordinator Jack Nudo will manage in Ragle’s place.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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