Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications
By Bennett Conlin
Bob Chesney was officially introduced as JMU football’s head coach on Dec. 7, and he spoke to the media for the first time on Dec. 12.
While Chesney has made plenty of public appearances in the last 10-ish days, he’s also worked hard behind-the-scenes to recruit players, meet current players, and hire a staff.
A few of Chesney’s staffing hires have been reported by major media outlets. Let’s break down what we know about his staff so far.
Offense
Dean Kennedy, OC – Kennedy will follow Chesney from Holy Cross and serve as the team’s offensive coordinator, according to ESPN. Kennedy led the Holy Cross offense in 2023 after working as the quarterbacks coach for the Crusaders in 2022. Prior to Holy Cross, Kennedy worked as an assistant quarterbacks coach at Florida in 2021.
Holy Cross led the Patriot League in scoring in 2023, averaging 36.9 points per game. That mark was seventh nationally.
Damian Wroblewski, OL – Chesney is retaining Wroblewski as the team’s offensive line coach, ESPN reported. The longtime Cignetti assistant is a veteran coach with an impressive track record at Elon and JMU. He also worked at Delaware and Rutgers previously, among other stops. Keeping him should offer the offensive line an immediate boost in 2024 and beyond.
Defense/special teams
Drew Canan, ST – Canan served as the special teams coordinator for Holy Cross, and he’ll take on the same role at JMU, per ESPN. Holy Cross’ special teams unit has been among the best at the FCS level for several seasons. The team led the FCS in 2022 with eight blocked kicks.
Eddie Whitley Jr, Rovers – Whitley is being retained by Chesney to held coach the defensive backs, per ESPN. Whitley came to JMU in Feb. 2020, and he previously coached at Bridgewater. He knows the area well, which should be a boost in recruiting.
Anthony DiMichele, recruiting/TBD – DiMichele coached the Holy Cross safeties in 2023 and also acted as the team’s recruiting coordinator. Additionally, he’s also coached running backs and special teams before. His exact on-field role is to be determined, but he has a wealth of experience for a young coach and should play an important role in recruiting efforts. ESPN reported his move to JMU.
Services Marketplace – Listings, Bookings & Reviews
