Jacob Donohoe joined the Kohawk football staff as the Offensive Coordinator in January of 2025. Jacob plays an integral role in developing game plans, organizing offensive installs, and leading the team’s quarterback group. With a well-rounded experience in both coaching and leadership, he has proven himself to be a valuable asset in building successful football programs.
Jacob’s coaching career spans several roles across multiple institutions, including his time as the Offensive Line/Run Game Coordinator and Recruiting Coordinator at Tyler Junior College. At Tyler, Jacob contributed significantly to the team’s success, helping them secure the 2024 SWJCFC Championship. He developed comprehensive game plans, specifically focusing on the run game, and managed all recruiting efforts, ensuring the acquisition of top talent for the program.
At Illinois State University, Jacob worked in various capacities, from Graduate Assistant Offensive Coach to Director of Recruiting/Offensive Quality Control. As a Graduate Assistant, Jacob played an essential role in helping the Redbirds reach the FCS Championship Quarterfinals in 2019. He organized quarterback and wide receiver meetings, contributed to offensive game planning, and assisted with the recruiting process. Later, as Director of Recruiting, Jacob oversaw the recruitment of prospective players, managed the recruiting board and scholarship allotments, and organized official visits, all while developing scouting reports and call sheets for the offense.
Jacob’s early coaching career at Coe College began in 2021, where he served as the Assistant Offensive Coach for Wide Receivers. In this role, Jacob led wide receiver meetings, contributed to the development of the passing game, and helped recruit high-caliber athletes. His efforts were vital in building a strong offensive foundation, both in terms of player development and recruiting strategy.
Before his coaching career, Jacob had a standout career as a player at Illinois State University. As a quarterback and wide receiver for the Redbirds from 2014 to 2016, he played a key role in the team’s success, including reaching the 2015 FCS National Championship Game and winning the 2015 and 2014 MVFC Championships. Jacob’s experience as a player, combined with his coaching expertise, gives him a unique understanding of the game from both sides of the ball.
Jacob holds a Master of Science in Psychology of Sport and Physical Activity from Illinois State University (2019), as well as a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Business (2017).
