Jay Staggs comes to Idaho State after serving as the defensive coordinator at Adams State for the last three years.
Prior to coming to Adams State, Staggs spent three seasons as a graduate assistant at UNLV where he worked with Tim Hauck. He was largely responsible  special teams, scouting reports and recruiting in the central coast and bay area of California.
Prior to his time as a graduate assistant, Staggs suited up for the Runnin' Rebels from 2003-06 as a standout defensive back earning honorable mention All-Mountain West as a junior and senior safety. Â He ended his UNLV career with 206 tackles and six interceptions in 46 games.
His successful collegiate career translated into an NFL free agent contract with the Chicago Bears in 2007. He then went on to play three seasons for the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League before returning his focus to coaching.
Staggs has coaches many players who have gone onto play in the NFL. While at UNLV he coached; Peni Vea (Kansas City Chiefs),Kenny Penny (Kansas City Chiefs), Mike Horsey (Green Bay Packers), Tahj Hasson (Washington Redskins) and Tory McTyer (Miami Dolphins).
At Adams State, Staggs coached Mike Cirino (Indianapolis Colts).
And add a note that SAF Garrett Jackson led the NCAA at all levels in solo tackles per game and was awarded as a JR in 2017, he will also probably sign as a Free Agent after next years draft.Â
Staggs served as the head coach for the Coronado High School (Nev.) junior varsity football team in 2008. He also served as a performance specialist at the Philippi Sports Institute of Las Vegas from 2007-12.
The Goleta, Calif. native holds a B.A. degree in Sociology from UNLV and a Master's degree in Public Administration, also from UNLV.
