Jerome Haywood is a seasoned football coach and mentor with a passion for both the physical and mental aspects of the game. Graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from San Diego State University in 2002, Haywood's journey into football began as a standout defensive tackle for SDSU, where he earned recognition as the WAC Pacific Division Freshman of the Year in 1998 and Conference Honors for the following 3 seasons..

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Haywood's professional football career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) spanned eight successful years, during which he showcased his talent and leadership on the field with teams like the Ottawa Renegades, Montreal Alouettes, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, and Edmonton Eskimos. His dedication and skill earned him accolades such as CFL Lineman of the Week and multiple appearances in Eastern Conference Championship games.

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Transitioning from player to mentor, Haywood's coaching career took root at San Diego State University, where he served as a Volunteer Strength & Conditioning Coach and Defensive Line Coach. His commitment to developing both the physical and mental prowess of athletes led him to roles as a Defensive Quality Control Coach and On-Campus Recruiting Coordinator at SDSU, where he played a crucial role in shaping the future of football talent.

In 2020, Haywood brought his expertise to The University of New Mexico as the Defensive Line Coach, where he continued to inspire and guide young athletes to excel on and off the field. Under his guidance, the Lobos' defensive line showcased remarkable performance, boasting impressive statistics in tackles, sacks, and tackles for loss across multiple seasons.

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Haywood's coaching philosophy extends beyond the game itself; he emphasizes the importance of mental well-being and academic excellence, serving as a liaison to Academic Support Services and actively engaging in the holistic development of student-athletes. His tenure as Athletic Director at the San Diego Center for Children further underscores his commitment to nurturing young talents, instilling values of teamwork, motivation, and personal accountability.

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With over nine years of experience in coaching and academic supervision, Haywood continues to shape the next generation of football stars, fostering a culture of discipline, hard work, and resilience. His dedication to the sport, combined with his background in mental health and education, makes him a valuable asset in the development of well-rounded athletes poised for success on and off the field.