Jackson State University

Former NFL Standout Kevin Mathis enters his third season coaching the Tigers' defensive backs.

In the Fall 2021, JSU led the Southwestern Athletic Conference in fewest passing yards allowed per game (157.1 ypg), the third-lowest in the nation. Shilo Sanders' four interceptions tied for the second most in the SWAC as the Tigers' tied for the league lead with 13 interceptions. 

Mathis previously coached with JSU head coach Deion Sanders at Trinity Christian. He helped lead TCC to three-straight Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) titles and a TCAL national championship.
 
Mathis was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys after the 1997 NFL Draft, and played nine pro seasons with three teams (Dallas, New Orleans, Atlanta). Mathis started all 16 games with the Saints in 2000 and also averaged more than 23 yards per kickoff return helping the franchise to their first ever playoff win. Mathis played in 115 career games, making 11 interceptions (three returned for touchdowns), with 10 fumble recoveries and nine forced fumbles while averaging 24 yards per kickoff return.

Mathis was a standout at Texas A&M – Commerce and three-time NCAA Division II All-American. He is a member of the TAMU-CC Hall of Fame.