An Interview With Coach Gibson’s First Commitment… Jayland Parker.

Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with one of the most exciting new faces of Marshall’s football program this offseason. No, it wasn’t Coach Gibson or anyone from his staff—it was linebacker Jayland Parker, the first official player to commit to the Herd under Gibson’s leadership.

Though Parker has yet to take the field in Huntington, he’s already become a fan favorite. On social media, he’s constantly engaging with recruits, encouraging them to join him at Marshall. His passion for the program, his love for the university, and the way he has embraced the Huntington community are setting him up to be a player fans will remember for years to come.

I had the chance to ask Jayland a series of questions, and he graciously shared his thoughts. Here’s how our conversation went:

Q: When did you start playing football, and what made you want to take up the sport?

A: “I started at 6. I grew up watching The Cowboys when I was younger. One weekend I told my mom I wanted to play football and be like T.O. (Terrell Owen’s).”

Q: How was your home life growing up? Where did you live, and who were some of the major influences you credit for your success?

A: “I grew up in a single parent household with my younger sister. I stayed in Atlanta,Georgia from kindergarten through 8th grade. Growing up I faced death at an early age. I lost my dad when I was 8 years old. My mom had to play both roles but there’s so much a woman can do raising a male. So my godfather who passed away last year played a huge role. He would come to my games and take me to camps and things. My friend who I call my brother, Damion Wright, helped me a lot through my recruiting process he still helps me today. My high school coaches Adam Gillhouse Rich Fendley and Justin Montgomery who are well respected in Georgia sports gave me my opportunities and put me in the right position my 9th and 10th grade year and I just ran with from their I couldn’t be more thankful for my family friends and coaches”

Q: What high school did you attend, and how would you describe your playing career? What initially drew you to NC State?

A: “I attended Howard HS in Macon Ga for a year. I went as Quarterback because that what I played all way to 10th grade. Transferred to Westside HS and played all 4 DB positions and eventually moved to nickel which I love because I’m in space and sometimes playing man to man. By my senior year I was playing Middle linebacker so I’m pretty versatile. My playing career overall was pretty good. I come back to Macon and people still talk about some of the big hits and plays I made. I was recruited by Todd Goebbel as a freshman when he was at Marshall he told me he would offer me when he went P5 and he stuck to his word. I committed to Colorado first but eventually flipped to run with Pack in Raleigh”

Q: When you entered the transfer portal, what drew you to Huntington and Marshall University?

A: “Well once Coach Gibson (signed at Marshall) it was no brainer for me. Then I already saw the style of football Marshall played when they came to Raleigh in 2023. I didn’t want to get recruited by anyone else I truly was ready to commit once I got the offer”.

Q: In your brief time here, what are some of your favorite things about Marshall and Huntington?

• Favorite aspects of campus?

• Favorite restaurant?

• Anything specific you plan to do during your downtime?

A: “Well I’ve been in a busy city for 5 years. I truly wanted to be around an environment of a college town but also somewhere I could see myself being successful as a man. I love how there’s only two schools (in the state of West Virginia) for any athletics really, us and the school up the road. I truly feel that I will grow and become the person I want to be here.

 I loved the Gymnasium I’m a big hoops guy. So the fans will definitely see me at the games. My favorite restaurant is pending right now but I will say Roosters is pretty good. I’m waiting to try Tudor’s.

During my free time I look to establish my clothing brand in the WV area. I truly enjoy making clothes. It would be nice to see the people of Huntington in some “RackChaser” apparel”

Q: Having played under Coach Gibson at NC State, what can you share about his coaching style (without giving away too many details, of course)?

A: “Coach Gibson coaches you hard and loves you harder. He means business and he always keeps it real. For him to take me with him is truly a honor. There aren’t many coaches like Coach Gibby. I was one of his first 2 linebackers to come in so I can’t wait to finish this season up with him.”

Q: Is there anything Herd fans can do to help you get acclimated to the city and campus? Have you faced any challenges or concerns we could assist with?

A: “Honestly no, I’m going to be out a lot in the community. I can’t wait to meet the fans and excited to interact with. All I can say is I want to leave Marshall and the city of Huntington better than it was before I came”.

Jayland’s story is one of talent, determination, and enthusiasm for the Marshall football program. His commitment to the Herd, coupled with his efforts to recruit other players, makes him the perfect cornerstone for the start of the Tony Gibson era.

As a highly sought-after talent with a bright future, Jayland Parker promises to bring excitement to Joan C. Edwards Stadium every week. I can’t think of a better ambassador for this new chapter in Marshall football than Parker.

Go Herd!

Headset out…