A defensive boost for Jackson State
Jackson State University has named Breeland Speaks to the newly created role of defensive analyst and outside linebackers coach, a move that underscores the program’s ambition to fortify its pass rush ahead of the 2026 campaign.
Speaks arrives after a distinguished professional career that spanned multiple NFL franchises, including the Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers and Jacksonville Jaguars. His most recent chapter was with the Michigan Panthers of the United Football League, where he earned 2024 UFL Defensive Player of the Year honors after posting 32 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.
The former second‑round draft pick, selected by the Chiefs in 2018, also excelled at Ole Miss before turning pro, compiling 121 total tackles, 15 tackles for loss, nine sacks and a forced fumble during his collegiate tenure.
Speaks announced his retirement from professional football on June 30, 2026, clearing the path for a transition into coaching. At 6‑foot‑3 and 285 pounds, his blend of size and experience is expected to accelerate the development of Jackson State’s defensive linemen and edge rushers.
A new era under Coach Taylor
Head coach T.C. Taylor highlighted the hire as a pivotal piece of his defensive overhaul, noting that Speaks’ SEC pedigree and proven pass‑rush production will complement the staff’s strategic vision.
Taylor emphasized that the coaching staff will leverage Speaks’ extensive network and knowledge of the game to attract top talent and implement a more aggressive scheme, aiming to elevate the Tigers’ competitiveness in the SWAC and beyond.