Jackson State football has announced a pair of coaching staff changes for the 2026 season.
Raekwon Bethea joins the Tigers as their new defensive line coach. Bethea comes to JSU from Hampton where he was in charge of coaching defensive tackles. His career also includes stops at SMU, Kentucky, Coastal Carolina, Western Kentucky and Albany State.
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In 2025, JSU was first in the SWAC and 12th in the FCS in average rushing yards allowed with 111.7 yards per game. It was also fifth in the conference in sacks with 19. None of the Tigers’ starting defensive linemen will return in 2026.
Bethea replaces Aaron Jackson, who announced on social media on Dec. 20 that he was leaving the program.
“1st off thanks to coach (T.C.) Taylor & (associate head) coach (Otis Riddley) for the tremendous opportunity!” Jackson wrote. “… These past 3 seasons have truly been special and instrumental for growth in the profession! … I will be in pursuit of other opportunities and wish thee Tiger family the best.”
Much of JSU’s recruiting this offseason was focused on the defensive line. The Tigers are set to have 11 new additions at the position, seven from the transfer portal and four from high school and junior colleges.
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The other new hire is Trey Uptigrow as the director of sports performance. He previously served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Florida Atlantic. He’s also worked at South Carolina State, WKU, Mississippi Valley State and Allen.
Tia Reid covers Jackson State sports for the Clarion Ledger. Email her at treid@usatodayco.com and follow her on X @tiareid65.
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Jackson State football makes coaching staff changes for 2026 season
