JC French IV, the former Georgia Southern quarterback who amassed 5,882 passing yards and 38 touchdowns over his last three seasons, has announced his commitment to the University of Cincinnati for the 2026 campaign. The move caps a collegiate career that included a 65.6% completion rate in 2024 and a senior‑year captaincy, positioning him as one of the most prolific passers in Eagle history.
A New Chapter in the Queen City
French’s decision follows a standout tenure in which he broke the school’s single‑season completion percentage record and led the Eagles to memorable victories, including a triumph over Appalachian State on their home turf. His leadership on the field has been matched by a quiet confidence that has drawn attention from coaches and analysts alike.
The Bearcats’ Nippert Stadium, a venue known for its intimate atmosphere and passionate student section, will be the stage for French’s final college chapter. He has spoken about the electric feeling of playing in front of a crowd that fills the stadium on game nights, noting that the home‑field advantage could be a decisive factor as he aims to finish his eligibility with a strong performance.
Growing up, French modeled his game after Drew Brees, admiring the quarterback’s longevity and poise despite a similar build. “Seeing a player of Brees’ caliber succeed at the highest level gives me a blueprint for how to approach the game,” French said, adding that the comparison fuels his preparation and work ethic.
Off the field, French balances his football commitments with a love of golf and culinary exploration in Cincinnati. He has praised local spots such as Jeff Ruby’s The Precinct and MRBL in Kentucky, and he often unwinds by watching The Blind Side or re‑watching Game of Thrones. Before kickoff, he listens to a mix of country, hip‑hop and contemporary hits, with artists like Morgan Wallen and Drake shaping his pre‑game playlist.
Within the locker room, French highlights the camaraderie he shares with teammates like Cray Paich, whom he calls the team’s funniest player, and his position coach Pete Thomas, whose humor and dedication to strength training have left a lasting impression. “The bond we’ve built will make the final season special,” he noted, emphasizing the role of fans in driving the team forward.