Kevin Bracken Joins JCU Football Staff as Defensive Coordinator

3/24/2023 10:00:00 AM | By: Michael Gallipoli, Senior Staff Writer

Kevin Bracken joins the Blue Streaks via Bucknell University.

UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS – Coming off a red-hot season that landed the Blue Streaks with an 8-2 record, John Carroll Football continues to add new faces to the already impressive coaching staff.

John Carroll now welcomes new defensive coordinator and linebackers coach Kevin Bracken to the 2023 squad.

Bracken most recently coached at Bucknell University (an NCAA Division I FCS school).

"I'm fired up to be here and work for Coach [Jeff] Behrman. John Carroll is a legendary and historical program. I couldn't feel more blessed for the opportunity", said Bracken.

Bracken graduated from Moravian College (the new home of former JCU DC Jeff Long Jr., now the Greyhounds head coach) with a degree in Mathematics and Political science. During his time at Moravian, Bracken started as a linebacker for three years, garnering ECAC player of the week twice along with CC player of the week twice.

Bracken carries a wealth of past experience with him as he transitions to John Carroll that will be sure to propel the squad to success this upcoming season.

Bracken's coaching career started at Division III Franklin & Marshall College. He spent two years at Franklin & Marshall, helping the team finish with a winning record in both years as coach.

After his time at Franklin & Marshall, Bracken spent a short stint at Villanova University, serving as an assistant linebacker coach.

In 2019, Bracken accepted a defensive line coach position at Bucknell University. Bracken served as defensive line coach for two years, before getting promoted to linebacker coach and run game coordinator at Bucknell.

"I'm blessed and fortunate to work for great football coaches at each stop in my career. I am most proud of the people I've worked for and who have shown me the ropes."

Bracken brings a great deal of enthusiasm and passion anywhere he goes, and John Carroll will be no different. His defensive schemes cause mayhem on the field, placing a heavy emphasis on effort to the ball.

As practices get underway, Bracken is sure to have the Blue Streaks ready and eager on and off the field.

What They're Saying:
"Kevin has a passionate desire to help his players to become the best that they can be both on and off the football field. The first thing you notice about Coach Bracken is his infectious energy and enthusiasm. He loves the game with all his heart. I am excited to see what Coach Bracken can accomplish at JCU. I know his defense will be known for their speed, relentless pursuit, and toughness."
–Dave Cecchini, Bucknell Head Coach

"Kevin is a passionate coach with a dynamic personality. He operates with high energy and an attention to detail. JCU student-athletes, fans, and alumni should be excited for a smart, hard working leader who will pour his heart into the young men he coaches while he creates mayhem on the field for opposing offenses."
–Ryan Manalac, Pitt Linebackers Coach

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