Jennifer King Adds NFL Experience to NCCU Football Staff
Jennifer King, one of the first Black women to coach in the NFL, has joined North Carolina Central University’s football staff as an offensive analyst. Her arrival comes just days before the 97th Aggie-Eagle Classic, one of the biggest HBCU football rivalries in the nation.
King is widely respected for her groundbreaking career in professional football. She worked as an assistant coach with the Washington Commanders, making her one of the first Black women to hold a coaching role in the NFL. Now, she brings her expertise to NCCU, aiming to strengthen the Eagles’ offensive strategy.
“Jennifer King’s knowledge and experience are invaluable,” said NCCU Head Coach Trei Oliver. “She knows the game at the highest level and will help our program grow.”
Aggie-Eagle Classic Brings Century-Long Rivalry to the Spotlight
The Eagles will face North Carolina A&T in Greensboro this Saturday for the 97th Aggie-Eagle Classic. The matchup dates back to 1931 and has become one of the most celebrated rivalries in HBCU sports.
NCCU enters the game on a high note after a commanding 49-19 victory over Fayetteville State. The Eagles have also won the last three contests against the Aggies under Coach Oliver. Last year’s meeting ended in a decisive 66-24 win for NCCU at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium.
Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. at Truist Stadium and will air live on FloFootball. Fans from both schools are expected to pack the stands, keeping the tradition alive with passionate energy.
New Coaching Hires Add Fresh Energy to Both Teams
Both programs bring new faces to the sidelines this year. In addition to King, North Carolina A&T appointed Shawn Gibbs as its new head coach last December. Gibbs, a former A&T player, takes over with hopes of steering the Aggies to success in the Coastal Athletic Association.
Meanwhile, King’s addition to NCCU represents more than football. Her role highlights the increasing presence of women, particularly Black women, in leadership positions within the sport. Her influence will likely be felt not just in strategy, but also in mentorship for student-athletes.
“Representation matters,” one NCCU player said. “Seeing someone like Coach King on our staff motivates us to push harder.”
Walker Harris Leads NCCU With Career Performance
Quarterback Walker Harris is another storyline heading into Saturday’s matchup. Harris threw for 387 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s win over Fayetteville State. He also ran for a touchdown, flipping into the end zone just before halftime.
His strong play earned him recognition as the HBCU National Player of the Week and the MEAC Offensive Player of the Week. Harris will be a key figure against the Aggies, who are looking to bounce back after a 1-2 start to their season.
With King’s NFL experience guiding the offense and Harris playing at his peak, NCCU is aiming to continue its recent dominance in the rivalry.
