One day after Boston College head football coach Jeff Hafley affirmed his commitment to the program in a Sunday press conference, BC Athletics announced Monday afternoon that Hafley’s contract with the Eagles will be extended through 2026.
Salary details have not been disclosed.
“Jeff has had a tremendous impact on our football program over just two seasons at the Heights,” BC Athletics Director Pat Kraft said in a release. “He has built a strong culture, both on and off the field, recruited talented student-athletes and helped us build meaningful relationships for the entire Boston College community. We are excited for the future of BC Football under Jeff’s leadership.”
Hafley assumed the head coach position prior to the 2020 season following Steve Addazio’s departure. Previously, Hafley served as Ohio State’s defensive coordinator and worked with several other NCAA and NFL programs. The 2020 Eagles were one of few college football programs without any major COVID-19 outbreaks, including just two total cases within the team.
During the 2020 season, Hafley led the Eagles to a 6–5 overall record while breaking even at 5–5 in ACC play. In 2021, the Eagles finished their regular season with an even 6–6 record while going 2–6 in ACC play.
The Eagles have qualified for two straight bowl games under Hafley’s leadership, though they opted out of bowl selection in 2020. In his two seasons at BC, Hafley’s 12 victories tie him with Michigan State head coach Mel Tucker for second-most wins among head coaches hired in 2020.
Despite his 12–11 record as head coach, Hafley has brought fan and student enthusiasm back to the program. He repeatedly calls on students to get into the stadium early, even requesting that fans stay up all night to get an early start. He also coined the phrase “get in,” calling fans to put their faith in his new program.
Hafley is heralded as a defensive-minded coach with a knack for recruiting. The 2022 BC class is ranked No. 24 nationally and fourth in the ACC by rivals.com, tying with BC’s 2003 and 2004 recruiting classes for the highest rank in program history. The Eagles currently rank No. 34 in the NCAA in total defense, a metric used to evaluate overall defensive prowess.
“I can’t say enough about the incredible support shown by Pat Kraft, Father Leahy and our entire University leadership,” Hafley said in the release. “From day one, Boston College has been a special place for my family and I and we are thrilled to continue to be a part of this community. I am grateful for the dedication and hard work of our players, coaches and staff, who have come together to build a foundation for an incredible future.”
Featured Image Courtesy of BC Athletics
