Alabama Football Champions Join West Alabama’s Coaching Staff Under Scott Cochran
In a significant move that combines championship pedigree with innovative leadership, Scott Cochran, head coach of the University of West Alabama (UWA) football team, recently announced the addition of several former Alabama football champions to his coaching staff. This strategic decision highlights Cochran’s commitment to elevating the football program and infusing it with the championship experience needed to compete at the highest levels of NCAA Division II football. The move has been met with enthusiasm by both the local community and the university’s athletic department.
The Rise of Scott Cochran
Before delving into the specifics of the new coaching hires, it is important to understand the context and significance of Cochran’s role at West Alabama. Cochran’s journey in football began as a player and transitioned into a coaching career that saw him rise to prominence as a strength and conditioning coach at the University of Alabama. During his tenure with the Alabama Crimson Tide, Cochran played a crucial role in shaping the team’s physical development, contributing to their success on the field, and helping Alabama secure multiple national championships.
Cochran’s time at Alabama (2004-2018) is marked by a period of dominance for the program, with multiple national titles and SEC championships. His dedication to improving players physically, combined with his understanding of the mental and strategic aspects of the game, quickly earned him a reputation as one of the best strength coaches in college football.
In 2019, Cochran made the bold decision to transition from strength and conditioning to a head coach position at West Alabama, a school with a rich history in athletics but one that had not achieved the sustained success of powerhouse programs like Alabama. Cochran’s arrival brought a sense of excitement and optimism for the future, as fans, players, and alumni alike looked forward to his ability to turn the UWA football program into a force to be reckoned with.
The Vision Behind the Coaching Staff Additions
When Cochran took over the program, he wasted no time in establishing his vision for the future of West Alabama football. His coaching philosophy is built on discipline, hard work, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of football. To bring his vision to life, Cochran knew that surrounding himself with a coaching staff that possessed a combination of experience, expertise, and championship-caliber insight would be paramount.
The decision to bring in former Alabama football champions reflects Cochran’s commitment to raising the level of competition at West Alabama. He understands that success is often defined by the people around you, and by adding individuals who have tasted victory on college football’s biggest stages, he aims to create a culture of excellence that transcends the X’s and O’s of the game.
“Bringing in people who understand what it takes to win at the highest level is essential for us to take the next step as a program,” Cochran said. “Alabama football is synonymous with greatness, and having former champions who have been through the grind of winning championships will help instill that mentality here at West Alabama.”
The new additions to the coaching staff are not just familiar faces from the Alabama program; they are former champions who have been integral to Alabama’s sustained success in recent years. Their experience, both as players and coaches, adds a level of credibility to Cochran’s program that is hard to match.
Key Additions to the Staff
While several former Alabama champions have joined the West Alabama football coaching staff, a few stand out due to their exceptional careers and unique contributions to the Alabama football legacy. These individuals bring with them a wealth of knowledge that will be crucial in shaping West Alabama’s future.
1. Terry Jones Jr. – Offensive Line Coach
One of the most prominent additions to the West Alabama coaching staff is Terry Jones Jr., a former standout offensive lineman for Alabama. Jones played a key role in Alabama’s offensive success during his time as a player, earning multiple All-SEC honors. His leadership on the offensive line helped Alabama’s high-powered offense dominate throughout his career, culminating in a national championship.
Jones’s experience on one of the most dominant offensive lines in college football history will prove invaluable as he transitions into his new role as the offensive line coach at West Alabama. His knowledge of offensive schemes, line play, and player development will be essential in rebuilding and strengthening the Tigers’ offensive line unit.
As Cochran looks to instill discipline and toughness on the field, Jones’s background as a champion offensive lineman provides a strong foundation for creating a unit that will be the backbone of the team’s success. His success at Alabama, coupled with his coaching ability, will help elevate West Alabama’s program to new heights.
2. Derrick Henry – Running Back Coach
Perhaps the most high-profile addition to the staff is none other than Derrick Henry, the former Heisman Trophy winner and Alabama’s all-time leading rusher. Henry’s time at Alabama was nothing short of spectacular, as he became the focal point of the team’s offense, leading them to a national championship in 2015. His combination of size, speed, and vision made him one of the most dominant running backs in college football history.
Henry’s transition into coaching will bring a wealth of insights and experience to West Alabama’s running back group. His understanding of what it takes to be a successful, elite running back will be critical in developing the next generation of players for the program. Henry’s presence alone will inspire his players to reach their full potential, as he exemplifies the kind of dedication and commitment required to excel at the highest level.
3. Jonah Williams – Offensive Coordinator
Another notable addition is Jonah Williams, the former Alabama offensive tackle who earned All-American honors during his time in Tuscaloosa. Williams was a stalwart on Alabama’s offensive line, known for his exceptional technique and ability to protect the quarterback. His leadership on and off the field helped anchor one of the most potent offenses in the country during his tenure.
As offensive coordinator, Williams will bring his football IQ and technical expertise to the Tigers’ offensive game plans. His experience playing in big games at Alabama will help prepare West Alabama’s offense for the challenges they will face at the Division II level. His focus on offensive line play, pass protection, and run blocking will be integral in helping West Alabama establish a dominant offensive identity.
4. Mack Wilson – Linebackers Coach
Mack Wilson, a former Alabama linebacker who earned multiple All-SEC honors and played an essential role in the Crimson Tide’s national championship defense, is another standout hire. Wilson’s leadership on the defensive side of the ball and his ability to read offenses and disrupt plays will be a major asset as he steps into the role of linebackers coach at West Alabama.
Wilson’s presence on the staff will enhance the team’s defensive approach, with an emphasis on discipline, tackling, and creating turnovers. His championship mentality will help instill a sense of tenacity and resilience in the Tigers’ defense, raising the standard for how they approach every game.
Building a Championship Culture
With these additions, Scott Cochran has not only bolstered his coaching staff with talent but also built a foundation for a championship culture at West Alabama. The value of having coaches who have experienced the pressure and success of national championships cannot be overstated. Their understanding of high-level competition, combined with their ability to teach and develop players, will help transform the West Alabama football program.
Moreover, Cochran’s leadership in bringing in this caliber of coaching staff sends a message to recruits, the student body, and the community at large that West Alabama football is ready to compete for championships. The program is no longer satisfied with merely being competitive—it is striving to build a legacy of winning and excellence.
Looking Toward the Future
As West Alabama’s football program takes the next step under Cochran’s leadership, the addition of these Alabama football champions to the coaching staff is a pivotal moment in the program’s history. The infusion of championship experience will not only elevate the quality of coaching but will also provide a roadmap for how to achieve sustained success.
The players at West Alabama will now be guided by coaches who have seen it all: the pressure of national championship games, the grind of a long season, and the determination required to succeed at the highest level. These coaches know what it takes to win, and that knowledge will be passed down to their players.
The 2025 season and beyond hold promise for West Alabama football as they look to build on Cochran’s vision and the expertise of their new coaching staff. With former Alabama champions on the sideline, the Tigers are poised to compete at the highest levels of Division II football and eventually become a powerhouse in their own right.
In the world of college football, where success is often measured by championships, the addition of these former Alabama champions marks the beginning of a new era for West Alabama football—one that is built on the principles of hard work, dedication, and, most importantly, winning.
As Scott Cochran and his staff look to the future, the goal remains clear: to bring championship football to West Alabama and to build a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. With former Alabama champions now helping lead the way, the Tigers’ pursuit of greatness has never been more promising.