Possible Replacements for JMU’s Head Football Coach
With Curt Cignetti leaving for Indiana, James Madison University (JMU) is in search of a new head football coach for the 2024 season. In recent years, JMU has had success with their coaching hires, and the program is looking to maintain that momentum. Here are several candidates who could potentially fill the Dukes’ vacant head coaching position.
Internal Candidates
Mike Shanahan: Currently JMU’s offensive coordinator, Shanahan has proven himself as a talented coach. Under his leadership, the Dukes’ offense has been consistently excellent. At just 33 years old, Shanahan has the potential to become a successful head coach.
Bryant Haines: Serving as JMU’s defensive coordinator, Haines has been impressive since joining the coaching staff. The Dukes’ defense has consistently caused problems for their opponents. Considering his background and experience with the program, Haines could be a suitable head coach option, and an internal hire would help maintain recruiting continuity.
Tino Sunseri: As the quarterbacks coach, Sunseri is highly regarded as a talented young coach. However, it may be too soon for him to transition from leading a position group to an entire program with College Football Playoff aspirations.
Potential Home-run Hires
Bob Chesney (Holy Cross): Chesney’s success at Holy Cross makes him a candidate for a Power Five head coaching position. With a record of 44-21 over six seasons, including an impressive 28-4 mark in league play, Chesney could be a game-changer for JMU. Although he is likely destined for a Power Five team, making a stop at a Group of Five program like JMU could be advantageous.
Joe Harasymiak (Rutgers): As the current defensive coordinator for Rutgers, Harasymiak had an impressive stint as the head coach of Maine from 2016-2018. He led the Black Bears to a 10-win season in 2018 and has been recognized as a rising star in coaching. Given JMU’s resources, Harasymiak could thrive in the head coaching role.
Other Candidates Worth Considering
Willie Simmons (Florida A&M): With an impressive head coaching record of 64-24 at Prairie View A&M and Florida A&M, Simmons has proven himself as a highly capable coach. His teams have consistently performed well, and he has a track record of at least nine wins in four consecutive seasons.
Drew Mehringer (Oregon): Although a somewhat unconventional choice given his youth and lack of head coaching experience, Mehringer has been considered as a potential JMU head coach in previous hiring cycles. Currently working as the tight ends coach at Oregon and with experience at Ohio State and Texas, Mehringer could provide fresh leadership with the right supporting staff.
Jerry Mack (Tennessee): As the running backs coach at Tennessee, Mack has previous head coaching experience at North Carolina Central from 2014-2017. With a record of 31-15, Mack has demonstrated his coaching abilities and currently works with an elite offense at Tennessee.
Jay Hill (BYU): Hill, who is currently the defensive coordinator at BYU, experienced significant success as Weber State’s head coach with a record of 68-39. While recruiting in Virginia and the East Coast would present a new challenge, Hill’s coaching abilities make him an attractive candidate.
Bryan Stinespring (Roanoke College): Although recently appointed as the head coach at Roanoke College for its inaugural football program, Stinespring is often mentioned by former players as a potential candidate for the JMU head coaching position. While his chances may not be realistic, his name often circulates in discussions.
Brandon Staley (Los Angeles Chargers): While this suggestion may be a joke, Staley’s success as the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers cannot be ignored. Rumors are circulating about his potential availability, so it remains to be seen if he could be considered.
Editor’s note: Who would you like to see lead the Dukes? Share your pick in the comments section.