Defensive Coordinator Bryant Haines Selected to 2022 AFCA 35 Under 35

WACO, Texas – James Madison defensive coordinator Bryant Haines was named to the 2022 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, the American Football Coaches Association announced on Monday.

Haines just completed his fourth season coaching the Dukes' linebackers and his first as the program's defensive coordinator.

JMU's defense ranks as one of the best in the Football Bowl Subdivision, as it's currently top 10 in eight statistical categories ahead of Bowl Season.

The Dukes are second nationally in rushing defense (79.5), first-down defense (13.82) and tackles for loss per game (8.7). They are also third in sacks per contest (3.45), fifth in both third-down defense (28.4%) and fumble recoveries (13), eighth in total defense (289.5) and 10th in takeaways (24). JMU additionally ranks 29th in scoring defense, allowing 20.9 points per game.

Seven JMU defensive players were voted to the 2022 All-Sun Belt Conference teams, highlighted by First Team honoree Isaac Ukwu. Two defenders made Second Team in James Carpenter and Jamare Edwards, while Taurus Jones took home Third Team accolades. Three others earned Honorable Mention distinction in Sam Kidd, Jordan Swann and Jailin Walker.

JMU completed its first season transitioning to the FBS with an 8-3 overall record with a 6-2 mark in Sun Belt games to finish tied atop the East Division.

Haines is JMU's second straight member of the 35 Under 35, as former DC Corey Hetherman garnered the award last season.

The AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute is a prestigious program aimed at identifying and developing premier, future leaders in the football coaching profession. Selected participants are invited to attend the one-day institute that features a curriculum of interactive lectures focused on topics specifically tailored to emphasize leadership in the coaching profession, ethics, influential responsibilities, career progression, and family balance.

Haines was one of two Sun Belt coaches honored in 2022, as he was joined by Coastal Carolina's Cody Ladutko and Old Dominion's Kevin Smith.

Calendar