“Back Where He Belongs: Cannon Lewis’ Journey Home to the Herd”

For Cannon Lewis, football has always been more than a game—it’s been a foundation, a passion, and most recently, a journey that has come full circle. A South Point, Ohio native and former Cabell Midland standout, Lewis is stepping into a new chapter with the Marshall Thundering Herd, and he’s doing it with a renewed sense of pride and purpose.

After beginning his college career at NC State, Lewis returns to his roots in 2025—ready to prove himself, represent his community, and make an impact as part of a defense built on tradition and toughness.

We sat down with Cannon to talk about his early football days, his growth at NC State, and what it means to come home and wear the green and white.

Let’s start at the beginning — What was your upbringing like, and how did football first become a part of your life growing up?

I grew up in South Point, Ohio, so I was always watching Ohio State and Marshall games on TV. Most of my family are big football fans, so it didn’t take long for me to decide I wanted to play football in college. I started playing in the first grade, and from there, it just solidified that I wanted to play this game for as long as possible.

What were your playing days like at Cabell Midland High School? Any moments or lessons from that time that still stick with you today?

I loved playing for Coach Salmons at Cabell Midland. There’s no doubt it shaped me into a better player and a better person. I still remember the first time my middle school team went to a Midland weight room session. I walked in, saw all the weights being thrown around, people screaming—and I just turned around and walked back out the door. I was terrified! But over time, those experiences helped toughen me and laid the foundation for who I am today.

You started your college career at NC State. What was that experience like both on and off the field, and how did it shape you as a player?

NC State was an awesome learning experience. Being coached by Coach Tony Gibson and Coach Jake Ellsworth for a year and just being a part of football at that level helped me understand how much goes into being a college football player—both physically and mentally. The discipline, the preparation, the level of competition—it all made me better.

You’ve had a close relationship with Coach Tony Gibson. How has he impacted your football journey and your growth as both a linebacker and a person?

Coach Gibson was the reason I went to NC State. When it comes to putting players in positions to succeed and developing them to play at a high level, his resume speaks for itself. From the moment I arrived, he didn’t hold anything back—he coached me hard and pushed me every day. That kind of coaching helped me grow—not just as a player, but as a person. He’s been a major influence on my football journey.

What led you to come back home and join the Herd? Was this always something in the back of your mind, or did the timing just feel right?

Playing for Marshall was definitely a thought in the back of my mind, especially after being so far from home during my first year. But I didn’t seriously consider it until Coach Gibson took the job here. Once I knew he was coming to Marshall, I knew that’s exactly where I was supposed to be. It just made sense—and it felt right.

Now that you’re wearing green and white, what does it mean to you to represent your hometown on this stage, and what kind of pride do you carry into every game?

It means everything to me. I’m representing not just a team, but my community, my family, and so many people I’ve known growing up who associate with Marshall. Playing for the Herd comes with a responsibility to uphold the standard of winning and honor the tradition that’s been built here by past players and coaches. I carry a tremendous amount of pride every time I take the field—and I give Marshall everything I have.

What are your goals for this season, and what kind of impact do you hope to make—on the field and in the locker room—as part of this Marshall defense?

My goal is simple: to help this team win, in whatever way I’m asked, and to do it at a high level. Being a good teammate and earning the respect of my coaches and brothers in that locker room means everything to me. I want every rep, every snap, and every moment to reflect that mindset. This isn’t just about personal stats—it’s about being part of something bigger than myself.

Closing Thoughts

As Cannon Lewis prepares for his first full season in a Marshall uniform, his journey serves as a reminder of what college football is all about—heart, home, and hard work. He’s not just playing for a team—he’s playing for the name on the front, the family back home, and the future of a program he believes in.

This hometown kid is ready to make his mark.