Ex-Roughnecks HC/GM June Jones Eyeing Return to Hawaii

Former Houston Roughnecks head coach and general manager June Jones is looking at a possible reunion with the University of Hawaii. Jones was the leader of the Rainbow Warriors from 1999 to 2007, mentoring quarterbacks such as Timmy Chang and Colt Brennan. He has the second-most wins (76) of any coach in program history behind Otto Klum (84).

Jones started his coaching career all the way back in 1983, and has spanned across multiple leagues (NFL, CFL, USFL, etc). It’s been a long journey for the 68-year-old, but he still wants to find an opportunity wherever it presents itself.

The last head coach at Hawaii, Todd Graham, resigned after allegations of player mistreatment. The scandal is still ongoing, and even involved the state senate. Jones seems to be the leading candidate for the open position, given the success he achieved in the past.

If Jones ends up back in Honolulu, he promises to install the famous “run-and-shoot” scheme. It’s one of the most notable parts of Jones’ system, and involves a wide-open, pass heavy offense. There’s an emphasis on receiver motion, with no-huddle plays in order to catch the defense off guard. There have been some exceptions during his coaching tenure, however, most notably the 2010 season at SMU. Jones was with the Mustangs at the time, and developed fullback Zach Line into the 11th-leading rusher at the FBS level. 

With a former XFL coach getting some buzz in the media, it could potentially lead the way for other spring football mentors. Jones is arguably one of the most experienced at his position, and a return to his alma mater wouldn’t be much of a surprise. 

*Update