Bob Chesney, the James Madison University football coach, has garnered significant attention recently. His tenure at the university has been marked by notable achievements, including a remarkable 21-5 record over two seasons. Chesney's impact on the team's performance has been instrumental in elevating the program's reputation.
Chesney's coaching career took an exciting turn when he was announced as the head football coach at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) for the 2026 season. This move comes after his successful stint at James Madison, where he has transformed the football program. Chesney's impending departure from James Madison has sparked interest in who will take over the reins at the university.
In a surprising turn of events, Billy Napier has been hired to replace Chesney at James Madison. Napier, who previously coached at Florida and Louisiana, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and valuable experience to the Dukes. This move comes as a significant change for the football program, which has thrived under Chesney's leadership. Napier is finalizing a five-year deal to become the next head coach at James Madison.
Chesney's leadership has been crucial in positioning James Madison for success in the College Football Playoff (CFP). The team's 25th ranking in the most recent CFP ranking and 19th positions in both the Associated Press Top 25 and the US LBM Coaches Poll are testament to his strategic coaching. Chesney's contributions have not only elevated the team's standings but have also prepared them for high-stakes competitions.
The transition from Chesney to Napier marks a new chapter for James Madison University football. While Chesney's leadership has been a cornerstone of the team's success, Napier's appointment signals a shift towards a different strategy. The future of James Madison football is promising, with both coaches bringing unique strengths to their roles. Chesney's move to UCLA and Napier's arrival at James Madison are set to shape the landscape of college football in the coming seasons.
