Jackson State names John Hendrick its next head football coach

Jackson State has decided to retain John Hendrick as head coach, the school announced Wednesday.

Hendrick, who said following the season that he understood “the rhythm of Jackson State.” took over a  program midway through the 2018 season after then-head coach Tony Hughes was fired in October.

“John Hendrick is a veteran who has proven his ability to provide the type of leadership that is required for our football program,” said JSU athletic director Ashley Robinson in a statement.

“Coach Hendrick has a vision for his offense. He will hire a proven offensive mind that will install an exciting and up-tempo offense. Fans will enjoy the points lighting up the scoreboard that will remind us all of the glory days. Beyond that, Coach Hendrick is a master-motivator, an experienced play-caller, a great defensive technician and, most importantly, puts the welfare of student-athletes above all else.”

He led Jackson State to a 2-1 record in three games, with the only loss coming to Alcorn State in the regular season finale that eliminated the team from SWAC Eastern Division race.

Before his three-week stint as head coach, Hendrick — as defensive coordinator — orchestrated a defensive unit that ranked in the top 5 in the SWAC.

“I would like to thank JSU President (William) Bynum and Mr. Robinson for trusting me to lead this legendary football program,” Hendrick said in news release. “Our goals will remain the same: graduate our student-athletes, compete for championships and continue to build this program into a force in the SWAC and the destination HBCU program in the country.”

Hendrick, who has been a college coach in the FBS, FCS and Division II in some capacity for 37 years, is the third head coach for Jackson State since 2013.

Prior to his current stint at Jackson State, the former University of Pittsburgh defensive lineman was the one-time head coach at Benedict from 2003 to 2006. Under Hendrick, Benedict went 18-25 and 11-21 in the SIAC.