Bob Chesney's Move to UCLA Sparks Coaching Searches at JMU and UCLA

Bob Chesney is leaving JMU to become the head coach at UCLA, with a five-year deal.

JMU is now actively searching for a replacement, with names like Billy Napier, Kevin Cahill, and internal candidates such as Colin Hitschler being considered.

Chesney's success at JMU, including an 11-1 record this season, made him a sought-after candidate.

The timing of the announcement, shortly after Chesney's press conference, added to the drama.

JMU Athletic Director Matt Roan faces a significant hiring decision, with pressure to maintain the program's success. Why this matters: The coaching changes at both UCLA and JMU will significantly impact the trajectory of their football programs. For JMU, maintaining their current level of success will depend heavily on the quality of their next head coach.

Billy Napier:: Former Florida coach with a strong track record in the Sun Belt.

Kevin Cahill:: Lehigh head coach with a successful season.

Colin Hitschler:: JMU's defensive coordinator, offering internal continuity.

Bryant Haines:: Indiana's defensive coordinator, previously at JMU.

Corey Hetherman:: Miami's defensive coordinator, with an offensive background.

DeLane Fitzgerald:: Southern Utah Head Coach and JMU alum.

Jerry Mack:: Kennesaw State Head Coach, with experience in the Group of Five.

Mike Jacobs:: Mercer Head Coach, with success at multiple Division II schools.

Joe Harasymiak:: UMass Head Coach, rumored to have been a candidate last time.

Drew Cronic:: Navy Offensive Coordinator, with a strong track record at lower levels.

Cris Reisert:: Gardner-Webb Head Coach, placed there by the same search firm that hired Chesney.

Joel Taylor:: West Georgia Head Coach, guiding the Wolves through their transition to FCS.

Chennis Berry:: South Carolina State Head Coach, with undefeated conference records at the Division II level.

Ryan Beard:: Missouri State Head Coach, leading the Bears into the FBS.