Former Alabama defensive back Vinnie Sunseri named defensive coordinator at Jacksonville State

JACKSONVILLE, Ala. (WBRC) - New Jacksonville State head football coach Charles Kelly officially has his defensive coordinator, and it’s a name that fans might recognize.

Vinny Sunseri, who played on Alabama’s 2011 and 2012 national championship teams, was officially named as JSU’s new defensive coordinator Thursday.

“Vinnie is one of the brightest young coaches in the country,” Kelly said. “He brings unparalleled energy, a wealth of football knowledge, and a relentless commitment to excellence. His experience as both a player and coach at the highest levels of the game makes him the perfect fit to lead our defense to new heights. We can’t wait to see the impact he’ll have on our program.”

2025 will not be the first time that Sunseri and Kelly have coached together. Sunseri began his coaching career as a grad assistant in 2019 at Alabama and Kelly was on the Crimson Tide’s staff then as the assistant defensive coordinator and safeties coach.

Sunseri comes to JSU after having spent last season as the safeties coach at Washington. Before that, he spent four seasons in the NFL on the New England Patriots staff.

With the hiring on Sunseri, Kelly’s staff is now starting to take shape. JSU also announced the hiring of Deshaun Davis as the linebackers coach Thursday, and named Clint Trickett as the offensive coordinator just before Christmas.

Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.