Coach Harper is from McComb, Mississippi where he graduated from McComb High School. Following high school, Coach Harper attended Highland Community College in Kansas. After Coach Harper’s freshman campaign, he finished with 31 total tackles, 2 sacks, and 4 Tackles for loss. He led the Scotties Defensive Line in all categories earning himself honorable mention All-Conference.

Coach Harper transferred to Fort Scott Community College where he redshirted his sophomore season.

Coach earned a Division 1 scholarship to the University of South Alabama where he played for Head Coach Joey Jones. Coach Harper was a part of the first winning season for the Jaguars after the schools transition to the FBS level. Also, earning the first Bowl Appearance in the Raycom Bowl in Montgomery, AL. Coach Harper went on to finish his career at USA with a total of 54 tackles, 8 Tackles for loss, and 4 sacks. Coach Harper was selected as All-conference player his senior year in the Sun Belt Conference.

Coach Harper earned his Associate of Arts degree in General Studies from Fort Scott Community College, and his Bachelor’s of Science in Recreational Management.

Coach Harper has two children Demarion Harper and Demi Harper. He is engaged to Alexis Joyner. Coach Harper resides in Iowa Falls.