FCS Football Front Page: The Latest News, Notes, & Recruiting Updates (Jan. 22)

The latest news from around FCS football, including Jackson State hiring former FCS All-American linebacker Javancy Jones

The FCS Football Front Page will deliver the biggest and most storylines from across the FCS throughout the offseason.

Each day we will bring you the top stories from around the country regarding FCS football. From coaching changes to recruiting updates, and everything in between the FCS Football Front Page has you covered.

Utah Tech LB Will Leota Transfers To Sacramento State

Former Utah Tech linebacker Will Leota announced his transfer to Sacramento State on Jan. 19. He will have one season of eligibility remaining for the Hornets.

Leota is a three-time All-Conference selection for the Trailblazers, including earning first-team honors as a sophomore in 2022 after leading the conference in total tackles (84). Over his three seasons at Utah Tech, Leota recorded 213 total tackles, 13 tackles for loss, one sack, three interceptions, and seven pass breakups. 

Leota signed with Utah Tech out of Salem High School in Salem, Utah. He earned first-team All-State honors after totaling 75 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and seven interceptions. He was also a two-time All-Region selection and recorded over 1,200 all-purpose yards on the offensive side of the ball. 

Jackson State Hires Javancy Jones As Special Teams Coordinator

Jackson State officially announced that former Louisville defensive coordinator Javancy Jones will serve as the special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach next season. 

Under Jones, Lousiville High School won three MHSAA 4A state championships over the past five seasons. The Wildcats allowed only 7.3 points per game and held 11 of 15 opponents under 10 points this past season. The Wildcats also recorded 75 sacks and 168 tackles for loss this season in 15 games. 

Jones earned FCS All-American honors in back-to-back seasons as a linebacker at Jackson State. He recorded 351 total tackles, 77 tackles for loss, 18.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles over his career with the Tigers. He signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an UDFA before retiring due to injuries. 

3-Star OL Elijah Walker Commits To Alabama State

Three-star offensive lineman Elijah Walker announced his commitment to Alabama State. He was previously committed to Campbell but opened his recruitment on Jan. 16 after head coach Mike Minter announced his departure from the program.

The 6-foot-4, 305-pound offensive lineman is from Daytona Beach, Florida. He is the No. 138 interior offensive lineman and No. 230 player in the state of Florida, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. He held offers from UCF, Charlotte, Iowa State, Georgia Tech, and multiple other FBS programs.

Walker was named the offensive line MVP of ESPN's Elite Underclassman Showcase in Orlando last season. He earned All-Area honors last season after leading Mainland High School to the state championship. 

FCS Football Front Page: The Latest News, Notes, & Recruiting Updates (Jan. 20)

FCS Football Front Page: The Latest News, Notes, & Recruiting Updates (Jan. 19)