Former Gators Coach Billy Napier Closing in on Major Coaching Move

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Former Gators Coach Billy Napier Closing in on Major Coaching Move

Former Florida Gators coach Billy Napier, who recently took the same position at James Madison, is reportedly set to hire East Tennessee State University assistant Cam Aiken as the Dukes’ offensive coordinator.

Aiken, a Clemson graduate, joined ETSU as its offensive coordinator after two seasons working with Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss. He spent nine seasons at Clemson and was USF’s running backs coach during the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

FootballScoop’s John Brice confirmed on Saturday, Dec. 13, that Aiken was Napier’s top target. ETSU went 7-5 (5-3 in the Southern Conference) this year, the program’s second consecutive winning season.

Brice added that Aiken is advising Ole Miss during the Rebels’ playoff run. Ole Miss hosts Tulane in the CFP opening round on Saturday, Dec. 20.

Although Aiken and Napier have never coached together, both worked with Dabo Swinney at Clemson. Napier was on Clemson’s staff from 2006 through 2010, spending his final two seasons as the Tigers’ offensive coordinator.

ETSU averaged 32.5 points this year and outscored opponents 390-346.

What to Know About Billy Napier and James Madison Football

Louisville Cardinals defensive back Corey Gordon (24) tackles James Madison Dukes wide receiver Michael Scott in 2025Jamie Rhodes-Imagn Images

James Madison has been one of college football’s best mid-major programs since becoming a full-time FBS program in 2022. The Dukes are 40-10 in that time and won their first Sun Belt championship this season.

Napier replaces Bob Chesney, who was recently named UCLA’s next coach. Chensey is 132-51 with James Madison, Salve Regina (a Division III school in Newport, R.I.), Assumption (a Division II school in Worcester, Mass.), and Holy Cross.

The 46-year-old Napier is no stranger to the Sun Belt, having led Louisiana to a 40-12 record from 2018 through 2021. However, he went 22-23 (12-16 in the SEC) with the Gators before being fired in October.

“This team has been incredible to watch,” Napier said upon taking the JMU job. “I’ve had an opportunity to watch the film. I’ve watched them play on TV. It’s very evident there is leadership here, there is a plan here, and there is execution here.”

Related: Lane Kiffin, LSU Lose Former 4-Star Running Back to Transfer Portal

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 14, 2025, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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