On December 20, 2024 Stetson University announced Mike Jasper as the third Hatters' head football coach of the program's modern era and the 11th in program history.
Jasper, who spent three seasons as an offensive lineman in the National Football League, posted a record of 44-20 in six seasons as the head football coach at his alma mater, Bethel (TN) University.
"I am thrilled that Mike Jasper has agreed to lead our football program," said Ricky Ray, Director of Athletics. "He is a tremendous leader who has experienced high levels of success in both his playing and coaching career. We are excited to welcome Mike and his family to DeLand and cannot wait to see him chase greatness at Stetson."
"I am honored to join the Hatter family. The energy and passion I felt from President Roellke and Ricky was next level. That energy was evident in everyone I came in contact with throughout this process. There is something special happening at Stetson and I am blessed to be a part of it. The young men in this program are getting a leader that is committed to their growth as a person off the field, just as much as on it. I am ready to get to work rebuilding the foundation and chasing greatness with my guys."
Jasper is the most recent NAIA player drafted by the NFL, selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2011 draft. He also spent time with the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants and Carolina Panthers.
As a head coach, Jasper led Bethel to consecutive 11-win seasons in 2022 and 2023. Jasper was named Mid-South Conference Coach of the Year and NAIA Region I Coach of the Year in 2022 after guiding the Wildcats to a conference title, the program's first 11-0 regular season and a top five national ranking.
In 2023, Bethel qualified for the NAIA playoffs and recorded an 11-2 mark. The 2024 Wildcats finished with a 7-3 record.
Before becoming head coach at Bethel, Jasper served as assistant head coach and defensive line coach. He also served as the offensive line coach and run game coordinator and oversaw the strength and conditioning program.
Jasper began his playing career at UT Martin and was a starter on their 2006 Ohio Valley Conference championship team. After redshirting at Middle Tennessee State, Jasper transferred to Bethel and was an offensive and defensive lineman from 2008 to 2010.
He graduated from Bethel with a bachelor's degree and a master's in business administration (MBA). Mike will be joined in DeLand by his wife Allison, their children Davis Reid, Millie Claire and Samuel David, and rescue dog Caine.
What are they saying:
"Mike has been a rising star in the profession and I'm excited to see him take over this program!"
Charles Huff - Head Coach - Southern Mississippi
"Coach Jasper is a great coach and a proven winner! Stetson made a big time hire!"
Jordan Hankins- Defensive Coordinator- Memphis
"Mike Jasper is a good coach and a better human being. Stetson got a guy that will pour his heart and soul into that community. He knows how to develop strong relationships with his players and his community. Great Hire!"
Jonathon Wallace- Running Backs Coach - Kansas
"Coach Jasper is an excellent hire for Stetson University. He is an elite recruiter / coach that will have his team prepared to perform at the highest level week in and week out. He knows how to develop talent on the field and build the person off the field. His players will gain the tools to excel in every walk of life under his leadership. I'm excited to watch his team play in 2025!"
Cameron Clemmons- Assistant Offensive Line Coach - San Francisco 49ers
"Mike is a high-level evaluator whose attention to detail has allowed him consistent opportunity to find overlooked players. He has a natural knack for utilizing his players based on their individual skill sets. He consistently has shown the ability to both recruit and develop."
Najja Johnson - Southeast Area Scout - Houston Texans
