Scott Cochran expands the coaching staff at West Alabama by adding two additional Alabama football champions

When Scott Cochran, the former long-time strength and conditioning coach at Alabama, took the reins as the head coach at the University of West Alabama (UWA), there was a collective sense of excitement surrounding the program’s future. Cochran’s arrival marked a new era for the Tigers, bringing a wealth of experience from his time with one of the most successful programs in college football history. Now, just a few months into his tenure, Cochran has made a bold move that further strengthens his staff: the addition of two Alabama football champions.

These new coaching hires are not just any former players; they are individuals who have contributed to the dominant legacy of Alabama football under the guidance of head coach Nick Saban. Their experiences and accolades will prove invaluable in Cochran’s pursuit of building a championship-winning culture at West Alabama.

In this article, we’ll delve into the significance of Cochran’s decision to expand his coaching staff, the backgrounds of these new additions, and what it means for the future of West Alabama football.

The Arrival of Scott Cochran: A Game-Changer for West Alabama

Before we dive into the hires, it’s important to understand Cochran’s vision for the UWA program. Cochran spent over a decade at Alabama, where he played a key role in developing some of the most physically gifted teams in the country. His expertise in strength and conditioning helped Alabama players excel not only on game day but in every aspect of their training and development. Cochran’s work ethic, intensity, and ability to inspire players have earned him a reputation as one of the most respected coaches in college football.

After leaving Alabama in 2020 to briefly serve as Georgia’s strength and conditioning coordinator, Cochran was hired as the head coach at West Alabama in late 2024. His decision to take on the challenge of leading a program at the Division II level was seen as a way for him to bring his championship experience to a place where he could help build something truly special from the ground up.

Cochran’s approach at West Alabama has been to build a culture of hard work, discipline, and winning. Drawing upon the lessons learned during his time at Alabama, Cochran is dedicated to creating an environment where players thrive both on and off the field. The addition of two former Alabama football champions to his coaching staff is a strategic move designed to enhance his ability to implement this vision.

The New Hires: A Pair of Alabama Football Champions

The first of the two new coaching staff members to be announced was former Alabama defensive back Eddie Jackson, a key figure in Alabama’s 2015 National Championship team. Jackson, who was known for his ball-hawking skills, leadership on the field, and his ability to make game-changing plays, brings a wealth of experience to the coaching staff. A former standout in both college and the NFL, Jackson’s football IQ is unmatched, and his ability to connect with players is a big part of why he has been brought on to assist Cochran.

Jackson played a pivotal role in Alabama’s defense during his time as a player, becoming one of the top safeties in college football. His leadership, both on and off the field, helped shape the defensive identity of Alabama during its dominant years. Jackson’s experience will be instrumental in developing West Alabama’s defense, and his insights will undoubtedly help the players improve their technique, positioning, and overall football intelligence.

“Eddie’s track record speaks for itself,” said Cochran. “He’s a championship-caliber player, and now he’s going to be instrumental in teaching our guys how to think and play like winners. We’re lucky to have him on board.”

The second major hire was former Alabama wide receiver Darius Hanks, who played a key role in the Crimson Tide’s 2009 National Championship team. Hanks, known for his strong work ethic and clutch performances, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the West Alabama coaching staff. His playing career, which included both significant college and professional success, gives him the ability to teach players not just about technique, but about the mental and emotional aspects of the game.

Hanks was a key contributor to Alabama’s explosive offense in the late 2000s. His time under Saban in the early stages of Alabama’s modern dynasty provides him with a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed at the highest level. As West Alabama looks to develop its offensive system and improve its passing game, Hanks will be vital in helping young receivers and quarterbacks make the most of their skills.

“Darius has been there and done that. He’s been part of a championship program and understands exactly what it takes to win at the highest level,” Cochran remarked. “He brings an energy to our offensive staff that’s contagious, and I’m confident he’ll help us take the next step as a program.”

What These Hires Mean for West Alabama Football

The addition of Eddie Jackson and Darius Hanks to the West Alabama coaching staff represents a major step forward for the program. Cochran’s decision to bring in former Alabama football champions adds a level of prestige and expertise to the Tigers that will undoubtedly resonate throughout the program.

For Cochran, the moves are strategic, as they allow him to build a coaching staff that not only understands what it takes to win at the highest level but also embodies the type of work ethic and commitment he wants to instill in his players. Jackson and Hanks have been through the rigors of competing at the highest level of college football and know what it takes to achieve greatness. They can now pass down that knowledge to the next generation of players.

The combination of Cochran’s leadership, Jackson’s defensive prowess, and Hanks’ offensive experience sets the foundation for a program poised for success. With these hires, West Alabama is sending a message to its players, recruits, and fans: this is a program that is committed to winning championships and developing the next generation of football talent.

For the players currently on the roster, the impact of these hires cannot be overstated. The presence of Jackson and Hanks on the coaching staff gives the players access to two individuals who have competed and succeeded at the highest levels of football. For those players hoping to make a career in football, having coaches who have been in their shoes and reached the pinnacle of success will provide a valuable perspective on how to achieve their goals.

Furthermore, these new hires signal to potential recruits that West Alabama is a place where success is expected and where coaching excellence is at the core of the program. As recruits consider their options, the ability to learn from former Alabama football champions with NFL experience will be an enticing prospect.

The Cultural Shift: Building a Winning Mindset

The addition of Jackson and Hanks to the coaching staff also represents a cultural shift at West Alabama. Cochran’s goal has always been to build a program that not only wins on the field but also produces players who are prepared for success in life. By bringing in two former champions, Cochran is reinforcing the importance of a winning mindset that extends beyond the football field.

“I want our guys to understand that championships aren’t just about talent,” Cochran said. “It’s about hard work, discipline, and making the right decisions both on and off the field. Eddie and Darius know that better than anyone. They’ve seen what it takes, and they’re going to make sure our players understand it too.”

The impact of this cultural shift is already being felt within the program. Players are buying into Cochran’s philosophy, and with Jackson and Hanks by his side, the message of discipline, commitment, and excellence is resonating with everyone involved. The coaching staff’s experience and credentials make it clear to the players that they are being led by individuals who have been through the grind of college football at its highest level.

Recruiting: Attracting Top Talent to West Alabama

One of the most important aspects of Cochran’s hiring strategy is the impact these former Alabama champions will have on recruiting. The presence of Jackson and Hanks on the coaching staff serves as a powerful recruiting tool. Both have the pedigree of competing in the Southeastern Conference and playing at the highest levels of college football, which will appeal to prospective student-athletes looking to make their mark in the sport.

West Alabama has historically competed in the NCAA Division II Gulf South Conference, but with Cochran’s leadership and the strength of the newly expanded coaching staff, the program is likely to attract recruits who are looking to build a championship pedigree at a place with a bright future. With these two additions to the coaching staff, West Alabama can now offer recruits the opportunity to learn from coaches who have been through the college football trenches and emerged as champions.

Looking Ahead: The Future of West Alabama Football

The addition of Eddie Jackson and Darius Hanks to the coaching staff is a clear signal that West Alabama football is on the rise. Under Scott Cochran’s leadership, the Tigers are positioning themselves as a program to watch in the years to come. With a coaching staff that combines experience, championship pedigree, and a commitment to player development, West Alabama is laying the groundwork for sustained success.

For Cochran, this is just the beginning. The next step will be to continue building the program’s culture, while also developing talented players who can eventually compete at the highest levels of college football. With Jackson and Hanks on his side, Cochran has assembled a coaching staff that embodies the winning mentality that has made Alabama football one of the most dominant programs in the country.

As West Alabama’s football program looks to the future, there’s no doubt that the additions of Jackson and Hanks will help pave the way for a new era of success. The foundation has been laid, and the Tigers are ready to take the next step toward greatness.