Scott Cochran strengthens the UWA program with seasoned talent by adding two former Alabama standouts to the coaching staff.

When Scott Cochran took over as the head coach of the University of West Alabama (UWA) football program, he inherited a team with a rich tradition and an eager fanbase, all hoping for success in the Gulf South Conference and beyond. Cochran, who had a storied career as a strength and conditioning coach at the University of Alabama before taking the reins at UWA, was no stranger to the pressure of building and maintaining a winning program. His experience working with some of the best talent in college football under the tutelage of Nick Saban was invaluable. However, Cochran recognized early in his tenure that while his coaching and leadership would be essential in guiding the team forward, surrounding himself with talented assistants and mentors was just as critical to success.

In an exciting development for the UWA Tigers, Cochran recently announced the addition of two former Alabama football stars to the coaching staff. These two highly regarded figures—each with their own championship pedigree—are set to bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and leadership to the program. Their addition strengthens not only the coaching staff but also the vision for UWA’s future, and signals Cochran’s commitment to building a competitive, championship-caliber team.

The Arrival of Two Alabama Stars

The two former Alabama football stars joining Cochran’s staff at UWA are a blend of different skill sets and experiences, but they share one common thread: they both helped contribute to Alabama’s dominance on the national stage during their playing days.

1. Former Alabama Defensive Back – Eddie Jackson

The first addition to the UWA staff is none other than Eddie Jackson, a former standout defensive back for the Crimson Tide. Jackson, who played for Alabama from 2013 to 2016, was an integral part of Alabama’s defense during his time in Tuscaloosa, and his contributions helped propel the team to multiple national championships. Known for his ball-hawking ability and playmaking skills, Jackson was a standout at safety and cornerback, finishing his Alabama career with 10 interceptions and multiple touchdown returns.

Following his time at Alabama, Jackson went on to a successful career in the NFL with the Chicago Bears, where he became one of the top safeties in the league. His ability to read quarterbacks, make big plays, and change the course of a game was well documented. His experience at the highest levels of college football and the NFL made him a coveted coaching prospect. Cochran, recognizing the value of Jackson’s leadership and defensive insight, brought him aboard to serve as UWA’s defensive backs coach.

Jackson’s familiarity with Alabama’s renowned defensive schemes under Nick Saban will be invaluable to UWA, especially in developing defensive backs who can thrive in the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of college football. Jackson’s impact will be felt not only in his ability to develop the skills of his players but also in instilling a mentality of discipline, toughness, and football IQ—principles that Jackson has embodied throughout his career. His ability to mentor young defensive backs, along with his extensive knowledge of Saban’s system, gives UWA an edge in developing top-tier defensive talent.

2. Former Alabama Wide Receiver – Amari Cooper

The second addition to the UWA coaching staff is Amari Cooper, one of the most accomplished wide receivers to ever play for Alabama. Cooper’s time in Tuscaloosa, from 2012 to 2014, was marked by his incredible skill, route-running ability, and explosive playmaking. During his three seasons with the Crimson Tide, Cooper established himself as one of the premier receivers in college football, winning the prestigious Biletnikoff Award in 2014 as the nation’s top wideout. Cooper’s ability to create separation, make contested catches, and rack up yardage was integral to Alabama’s offensive success during his time there.

After departing Alabama, Cooper was selected fourth overall in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders and went on to have a successful career in the NFL with several teams, including the Dallas Cowboys. Known for his smooth route-running, hands, and football intelligence, Cooper was a consistent threat on the field. His NFL career, which included multiple Pro Bowl selections and thousands of receiving yards, gives him the credibility and knowledge to coach future generations of wide receivers.

At UWA, Cooper will serve as the wide receivers coach, bringing his elite-level skills and experience to a group of young athletes eager to learn from one of the best. As an NFL veteran, Cooper brings an unparalleled understanding of how to succeed at the highest levels of competition, and his coaching philosophy will emphasize fundamentals, route precision, and mental toughness. For UWA, having someone with Cooper’s pedigree in the receiver room is invaluable, as it will not only help elevate the performance of the wide receivers but also inspire a culture of excellence that will permeate throughout the program.

The Vision Behind Cochran’s Decisions

Scott Cochran’s decision to bring in Jackson and Cooper as assistant coaches reflects his clear vision for UWA football. Cochran, who has a deep understanding of the value of recruiting and developing talent, knows that the foundation of any successful program is its coaching staff. In bringing in two players who not only excelled at Alabama but also have professional experience, Cochran is sending a strong message about UWA’s future goals.

Cochran’s philosophy has always revolved around discipline, toughness, and development. He wants to bring in players who are committed to doing the little things right, both on and off the field, and he understands that having strong mentors in the coaching staff will help instill those values. Jackson’s defensive prowess and Cooper’s offensive brilliance give Cochran the ability to build a balanced and competitive program from the ground up.

By bringing in these former Alabama standouts, Cochran is also tapping into a network of players who know exactly what it takes to win at the highest levels. Both Jackson and Cooper were a part of a winning culture in Tuscaloosa, and they have been exposed to the discipline, structure, and mental fortitude that come with playing for Nick Saban. That experience is invaluable in shaping the next generation of UWA football players, who will undoubtedly benefit from the lessons, work ethic, and expectations that Jackson and Cooper will instill.

A Boost to Recruiting and Player Development

One of the immediate benefits of adding Jackson and Cooper to the coaching staff will be the boost to UWA’s recruiting efforts. Both Jackson and Cooper bring star power and credibility to the program, and their presence will undoubtedly attract attention from high school recruits looking to take the next step in their careers. For recruits, the opportunity to be coached by two former Alabama stars, both of whom played at the highest levels of competition, is an enticing proposition.

Jackson’s success in the NFL will be particularly appealing to defensive backs who want to follow in his footsteps and achieve success at the professional level. Cooper’s reputation as a top-tier wide receiver will attract offensive playmakers who aspire to develop their craft under one of the most skilled and accomplished receivers in recent memory.

Cochran’s staff now has an infusion of experience, with Jackson and Cooper serving as role models for players on and off the field. These former stars can speak to the hard work, dedication, and perseverance needed to make it at the highest levels of football, and their mentoring will play a crucial role in shaping the future of UWA’s program.

A New Era for UWA Football

The addition of Jackson and Cooper to the coaching staff represents a new era for the UWA football program. Under Cochran’s leadership, the Tigers are positioning themselves for success in the competitive Gulf South Conference, and these two hires reflect Cochran’s commitment to bringing championship-level talent to the program. The combination of Cochran’s experience and the expertise of Jackson and Cooper will create a dynamic and well-rounded coaching staff that is capable of developing top-tier athletes.

The UWA football program is poised for growth, and with the addition of these two former Alabama standouts, the future looks incredibly bright. Jackson and Cooper will not only bring their football expertise to the field but also the winning mentality and work ethic that have defined their careers. For the players who will have the privilege of working under their guidance, the opportunities for growth and development are endless.

As UWA football looks to climb the ranks of NCAA Division II football, Cochran’s strategic decision to add Jackson and Cooper to the coaching staff will play a significant role in shaping the program’s future. With seasoned talent and a shared commitment to excellence, the UWA Tigers are ready to take the next step toward greatness.