Black Athletes in the Spotlight: HBCU Sports & Local Highlights
- Jalen Woods transfers from Southern University to Hampton, bringing a fresh start and leadership opportunity.
- Woods is a proven dual-threat quarterback, offering mobility and playmaking ability to Hampton’s offense.
- He arrives with three years of remaining eligibility, adding competition and stability at the position.
- Woods strengthens the Pirates ahead of spring practices as Hampton aims to improve in the Coastal Athletic Association.
Hampton University has added a significant piece to its football roster with the commitment of former Southern University quarterback Jalen Woods.
Woods arrives with three years of eligibility remaining, offering the Pirates possible competition and stability at the position.
Woods made his mark at Southern as a promising dual-threat option. While his time with the Jaguars was limited by depth chart competition and an injury, Woods will have a fresh opportunity to lead an offense eager to make strides under new head coach Van Malone.
Thank you Southern ! It’s been real ❤️ pic.twitter.com/ZYPr7wSaTo
— Jalen Woods (@j_woods2) January 5, 2026
The 6-foot-1, 200-pound quarterback last played in the second game of the 2025 season when he sustained an injury versus Mississippi Valley State that forced him out of the contest. He never played again for the remainder of the year despite being healthy.
For Woods, the transfer represents more than a change of scenery — it’s a chance for renewed momentum in his college career.
“I am incredibly grateful for Southern University and the opportunity it provided me to grow, compete, and represent this program,” Woods posted on X, formerly Twitter. “Thank you to the coaching staff, and most importantly, my teammates for pushing me every day and creating memories that will stay with me forever. After much prayer, reflection, and conversations with my family, I have made the decision to enter the transfer portal. This was not an easy choice, but I believe it is truly what’s best for me and my family at this point in my journey.”
Committed to Hampton University. 🏴☠️ #gopirates pic.twitter.com/O57Q1aqxCW
— Jalen Woods (@j_woods2) January 9, 2026
Hampton, a member of the Coastal Athletic Association, went 2-10 overall and 0-8 in the CAA last season.
Woods played in eight games and made three starts in his Southern career. He was the starting quarterback in Southern’s 24-14 win over Grambling in the 2024 Bayou Classic.
His addition strengthens the Pirates’ quarterback room ahead of spring practices, as Hampton looks to build upon its previous season and contend in the Coastal Athletic Association.
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