Breaking Down the San Jose State Football Roster: Key Players and Positions

2025-11-16 12:00

Having spent over a decade analyzing collegiate football programs across the NCAA, I've developed a particular fascination with how coaching transitions reshape team dynamics. When San Jose State officially handed the reins of their football program to that former PBA coach last spring, I knew we were about to witness something special. This isn't just another coaching change - it's a philosophical overhaul that's already reshaping the entire Spartans roster in fascinating ways. Let me walk you through what I'm seeing develop in San Jose.

The quarterback situation has completely transformed under the new regime. Senior signal-caller Nick Starkel returns after throwing for 2,873 yards and 27 touchdowns last season, but what many fans don't realize is how perfectly his skill set aligns with the new coach's offensive philosophy. I've studied every snap from Starkel's 2022 campaign, and his decision-making under pressure - particularly on play-action passes - has improved dramatically. The coaching staff has been working extensively on reducing his interception rate from last season's 9 picks, focusing on quicker reads and safer check-down options. Behind him, junior college transfer Michael Worth has been turning heads during spring practices with his surprising arm strength and mobility. I watched him complete 14 of 16 passes in their final spring scrimmage, showing remarkable poise for someone who should theoretically be just depth.

What really excites me about this roster transformation is how the running back corps has evolved. Kairee Robinson returns after rushing for 887 yards last season, but the real story is how the new staff is utilizing his versatility. I've noticed they're frequently lining him up in the slot during no-huddle situations, creating mismatches against slower linebackers. Tyler Nevens provides the power running element, but at 215 pounds, he's surprisingly effective in pass protection - something I rarely see emphasized in college backs these days. The depth here is better than most analysts recognize, with true freshman Shamar Garrett already showing flashes of being that change-of-pace back every successful team needs.

The receiving corps might be the most improved unit on the entire roster. Elijah Cooks returns from injury, and having watched him in rehabilitation sessions, I can tell you he's moving better than he has in years. His 6'4" frame creates natural red-zone advantages, but what impressed me during summer workouts was his improved route-running precision. Alongside him, Isaiah Hamilton has developed into a legitimate deep threat - I clocked him at 4.38 in the 40-yard dash during spring testing, which puts him among the fastest receivers in the Mountain West. The slot position will likely be shared between Charles Ross and Jermaine Braddock, giving Starkel reliable options on third-down situations where separation is crucial.

What often gets overlooked in roster analysis is how defensive schemes adapt to new coaching philosophies. The Spartans' defensive line features Cade Hall, who recorded 12 sacks last season, but the real transformation I'm observing is in how they're utilizing stunts and twists to create pressure. The new staff has implemented more hybrid fronts that alternate between 4-3 and 3-4 alignments, keeping offensive lines guessing. At linebacker, Kyle Harmon's leadership has been invaluable during this transition period. I've spoken with several players who credit Harmon with organizing extra film sessions to help teammates adjust to the new defensive terminology.

The secondary features Nehemiah Shelton at cornerback, and having charted his progress over three seasons, I can confidently say he's developed into one of the most underrated defensive backs in the conference. His pass breakup numbers don't fully reflect his impact - he consistently forces quarterbacks to look elsewhere. What really stands out to me is how the new coaching staff is utilizing more pattern-matching coverage concepts rather than pure zone, which plays to Shelton's strengths in reading quarterback intentions.

Special teams often gets shortchanged in roster discussions, but I've noticed particular attention being paid to this phase under the new regime. Punter Travis Benham averaged 43.2 yards per punt last season, but the coaching staff has been working with him on improving hang time to allow coverage units more time to get downfield. Kicker Taren Schive has shown remarkable consistency from inside 40 yards during practice sessions I've observed, though his long-range accuracy still needs development.

What makes this roster particularly intriguing to me is how the new coaching philosophy emphasizes positional versatility. I'm seeing multiple players working at hybrid roles - safeties who can play nickel coverage, defensive ends who can stand up as outside linebackers, and offensive linemen cross-training at multiple positions. This flexibility will be crucial as the Spartans navigate a challenging schedule that includes matchups against USC and Auburn. The depth chart isn't just about starters and backups anymore - it's about creating situational advantages through specialized skill sets.

Having studied numerous coaching transitions throughout my career, what stands out about San Jose State's situation is how quickly the players have bought into the new system. During my visits to their facilities, I observed a noticeable increase in player-led workouts and film study sessions. The culture shift appears to be taking root faster than even the most optimistic analysts predicted. While roster talent is crucial, this buy-in factor often separates successful transitions from struggling ones.

As we approach the season opener, my projection is that this roster has the potential to exceed last year's 7-5 record, though much will depend on how quickly the offensive line gels with two new starters. The pieces are there for a special season, particularly if the new coaching staff can maximize the unique talents scattered throughout this depth chart. What I'm most excited to watch is how this team evolves through the first month of the season, as early tests will reveal whether these roster changes translate into on-field success.