DES MOINES, Iowa – Joe Woodley, who led the Drake University football program to its third consecutive Pioneer Football League championship and berth in the FCS Playoffs, has resigned from his position as the Bulldogs' head football coach.
 
Under Woodley's leadership, Drake posted an 8-4 record in 2025 including a 7-1 mark in PFL play, good enough to secure the team's third straight title. The Bulldogs' season ended in the first round of the FCS Playoffs with a 38-17 loss at No. 11 South Dakota.
 
Woodley also helped guide 14 Bulldogs to All-Pioneer Football League teams in 2025 including the conference's Defensive Player of the Year in linebacker Sean Allison and Offensive Freshman of the Year in Nick Herman.
 
"Our football program, and Drake Athletics as a whole, is thankful to Coach Woodley for his contributions as a Bulldog," Drake Director of Athletics Brian Hardin said. "Joe used his natural leadership and excellent skills as a football coach to put together another sensational season in Drake Stadium. We wish him continued success on his coaching journey."
 
Woodley, who was hired in December 2024, spent 17 seasons across town at Grand View University as an assistant under his father, Mike, before eventually stepping into the head role. A native of the Des Moines metro, Woodley was a decorated prep player at Valley High School before competing at Iowa State University as a Cyclone captain.
 
Drake will begin an immediate national search for the next Bulldog football head coach.