Jacksonville, AL – As Rich Rodriguez continues to shape his coaching team at West Virginia University (WVU), Michael Nysewander has confirmed his transition from Jacksonville State to Morgantown. Nysewander, who served as the tight ends and inside receivers coach at Jacksonville State, announced the move in a heartfelt farewell message on Sunday.
“Two of the best seasons of my life! Thank you Jax St. for welcoming my family and for all of the memories you gave us!” Nysewander wrote. “Was an absolute honor and privilege to coach the ’23/’24 Jax St. Slots and TEs! Excited for our next chapter in Almost Heaven West Virginia!” He concluded the message with the hashtag #HardEdge, a nod to Rodriguez’s coaching philosophy.
Nysewander is expected to continue in a role similar to his position at Jacksonville State while working under Rodriguez at WVU. His move aligns with Rodriguez’s strategy of bringing experienced and trusted staff members to the Mountaineers program.
A Birmingham, Alabama native, Nysewander has a storied football career that began as a player at the University of Alabama. Nicknamed “Highway 46,” he earned recognition for his blocking abilities as an H-back/tight end, paving the way for star running backs like Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry. During his tenure, he helped the Crimson Tide secure three National Championships and SEC Championships under head coach Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin.
After graduating from Alabama in 2015 with a degree in communication studies, Nysewander signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as a rookie free agent. He later transitioned to coaching, beginning as the running backs coach at Samford. He subsequently joined Kiffin’s staff at Florida Atlantic in 2017 and followed him to Ole Miss, where he served as a senior analyst for three seasons before joining Jacksonville State in 2023.
Nysewander’s departure marks the end of two successful seasons at Jacksonville State, where he played a pivotal role in developing the team’s tight ends and inside receivers. His addition to the WVU staff is another step in Rodriguez’s effort to revitalize the Mountaineers program, leveraging the experience and chemistry built during their time together at Jacksonville State.
As Nysewander embarks on this new chapter, the WVU community will gain a coach with a championship pedigree, extensive coaching experience, and a passion for player development. Fans and players alike will be eager to see the impact of his contributions to the Mountaineers in the coming seasons.
See Additional Departures:
Rich Rodriguez Reportedly Adds Key Jacksonville State Staff to West Virginia Coaching Team
RichRod Resigns from Jacksonville State University
