Billy Napier takes James Madison job after $21 million Florida firing

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Billy Napier takes James Madison job after million Florida firing — Billy Napier takes James Madison job after 21 million Florida.jpg

Billy Napier has officially made the move to James Madison University, signing a five-year deal with the school. This news comes after Napier’s departure from his former position as the head coach of the Florida Gators, where he had a tumultuous run with a record of 22-23.

Napier will be taking over from Bob Chesney, who recently accepted a coaching position at UCLA after a successful tenure at JMU, where he led the team to a 20-5 record in two seasons, including an impressive 11-1 record this season. Chesney is expected to coach the team through the Sun Belt championship game and potentially a College Football Playoff run.

Florida made the decision to part ways with Napier earlier this season, following a 3-4 start. The university has since hired Jon Sumrall as the new head coach, offering him a six-year deal worth approximately $7.5 million per season. Reports suggest that Florida will be paying out more than $21 million to Napier as part of his departure.

Napier’s return to the Sun Belt Conference with JMU marks a significant move for the coach, who previously had a successful tenure with the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns, where he amassed a record of 40-12 and won two conference titles from 2018-2021.

JMU has been a dominant force in the Group of 6 teams in recent years, boasting a record of 39-10 since moving to the FBS and Sun Belt conference in 2022. The team has seen success under Chesney’s leadership and will look to continue their winning ways under Napier’s guidance.

Before Napier’s arrival, JMU faced the departure of Curt Cignetti, who left for Indiana two years ago. Despite these coaching changes, JMU remains a formidable opponent, currently ranked No. 25 and set to face off against Troy in the upcoming Sun Belt championship game.

Napier’s experience and success in the college football coaching world make him a valuable addition to the JMU coaching staff. Fans will be eager to see how Napier’s leadership will impact the team and propel them to further success in the seasons to come.