San Jose, California – San Jose State is closing in on hiring Ken Niumatalolo, the former head coach of Navy, as their next football head coach, according to sources familiar with the matter. It is expected that a deal will be finalized within the next two days. While Niumatalolo brings a wealth of coaching experience, sources indicate that he plans to implement a different offensive approach at San Jose State, opting not to run the traditional triple option.
Niumatalolo’s focus will be on assembling a youthful coaching staff that includes an offensive coordinator with a wide-open and pass-heavy system. As the winningest coach in Navy’s history, Niumatalolo’s record of 109-83 in 15 seasons speaks to his success and leadership on the field.
San Jose State’s athletic director, Jeff Konya, sought out an experienced head coach to maintain the team’s momentum after the departure of former coach Brent Brennan. During Brennan’s tenure, the team had made it to three bowl games in four seasons. Konya acted swiftly to secure Niumatalolo as the new head coach, aiming to provide stability, vision, and experience to the team amidst the possibility of player transfers.
Niumatalolo’s extensive head coaching experience made him a top priority candidate for San Jose State. His success at Navy, including 11 bowl appearances and multiple seasons with eight or more wins, establishes him as one of the most accomplished coaches in the Mountain West. Notably, Niumatalolo holds the record for the most wins by any coach in the Army-Navy rivalry with a 10-5 record.
The 58-year-old coach is expected to tailor his staff with a focus on youthful energy and West Coast connections. San Jose State officials are seeking a wide-open offensive system that aligns with the area’s recruiting resources, particularly strong quarterbacks and skill position players. Niumatalolo, a former quarterback himself, began his coaching career at Hawaii and has an extensive network for national recruiting.
In 2020, under Brennan’s leadership, San Jose State clinched the Mountain West title. Niumatalolo’s recent role at UCLA as the director of leadership provided him with valuable insights into transfer portals and name, image, and likeness (NIL) issues, preparing him for another head coaching opportunity. His experience at UCLA also exposed him to Chip Kelly’s offensive strategies, as he acknowledged the need to adapt his coaching style beyond the traditional option offense.
Niumatalolo’s potential hiring at San Jose State signifies the fulfillment of the athletic director’s objectives, ensuring continuity and progress for the football program. With the imminent arrival of Niumatalolo, San Jose State can look forward to a new era of coaching expertise and a strategic approach to propel the team to further success.