A defensive upgrade for Jackson State
Jackson State University announced this week that Breeland Speaks, a former NFL defensive lineman, will join the program as a defensive analyst and outside linebackers coach, a move that signals the school’s intent to sharpen its pass rush ahead of the 2026 season.
Speaks arrives after a journeyman career that spanned multiple NFL franchises and a standout stint in the United Football League, where he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2024 while playing for the Michigan Panthers.
From the SEC to the UFL and back again
During his college years at Ole Miss, Speaks emerged as a disruptive force, tallying 121 tackles, 15 tackles for loss and nine sacks, a performance that paved the way for his NFL entry.
After signing with the Kansas City Chiefs as a second‑round pick, he contributed 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries over three seasons, experiences that give him a pragmatic perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
Speaks announced his retirement from professional play on June 30, 2026, and immediately transitioned to coaching, citing a desire to mentor the next generation of defensive talent.
His appointment comes as Jackson State seeks to climb back to the top of the Southwestern Athletic Conference, a goal that the university’s athletic director says can be realized with Speaks’ blend of SEC pedigree and UFL accolades.