Image provided by: JMU Athletics Communications
Written by Ben Hofer
My sources say Santa Claus is a big JMU football fan. So, taking a break from serious reporting, he personally thought it would be fun to make a JMU football Christmas list. I’m pretty confident that Bob Chesney is a great guy and will probably be on the nice list, so I’m optimistic that Santa will be making a big visit next week.
Proven starting quarterback
I think the most important thing going into the 2024 season is the quarterback situation. In this category, I would be very happy if Jordan McLeod decides to come back or if Chesney can work his magic and get a commitment from Matthew Sulka. If you’re not into the Sluka hype, Josh will definitely enjoy his Allen-esque highlights.
Despite the tough first game of the year, I’m still firmly in the Alonza Barnett fan club and want to see him continue to develop under the veteran’s guidance.
Reload via portal
Perhaps just as important as acquiring a quarterback will be using the transfer portal to reload in the new year. I think this will be an area where Chesney excels in his first year. Multiple transfer portal targets have already visited JMU.
I hope the running back room will be revamped with the graduation of Latrell Palmer and the portal entry of Kaylon Black. The linebacker room will also need to be rebuilt with the likely departures of Aiden Fisher, Taurus Jones and Jaylin Walker.
We are also confident and hopeful that with Chauncey Logan’s recommitment, we will see a few more portal entries back.
Jaylen Green is healing quickly
I wish Jaylen Green, one of the greatest players in JMU history, a speedy recovery.
After suffering a serious injury late in the season that prematurely ended a great season and very likely breaking JMU’s single-season sack record and possibly the FBS record, Jaren recently made the following announcement: Intent to participate in the NFL Draft.
I believe Green could be a 6th-7th round or UDFA sleeper pick in the 2024 draft. Green has set up a page to financially support the recovery process and the additional costs of becoming a professional.
Bridgeforth Stadium expansion
Despite Bennett and Jack’s concerns, I would really like it if Geoff Bourne got on stage at his final press conference and told us of his plans to expand Bridgeforth beyond its 25,000 capacity. You will be happy.
Bonus points for renovation and expansion on the Godwin side to connect the student section to fit the rest of the stadium. With his average capacity of 102% for the 2023 season and back-to-back record-breaking attendance seasons, JMU fans will welcome his 30,000-plus capacity upgrade in half as the start of the Chesney era. I’m sure it will.
Happy Holidays to all JMU patients. Feel free to tweet me (@DukesRecruit) along with your personal JMU football Christmas list items!