Hampton University has added a significant piece to its football roster with the former Southern University commit quarterback Jalen Woods.
Woods comes with three years of eligibility, offering the Pirates possible competition and stability at the position.
Woods has made his mark as a promising dual-threat option in the South. While his time with the Jaguars has been limited by depth chart competition and injury, Woods will have a new opportunity to lead an offense looking to make strides under new head coach Van Malone.
Thank you South! It came true pic.twitter.com/ZYPr7wSaTo
— Jalen Woods (@j_woods2) January 5, 2026
The last time the 6-foot-1, 200-pound quarterback was sidelined was in the second game of the 2025 season when he suffered an injury against Mississippi Valley State. Despite being healthy, he did not play again for the rest of the year.
For Woods, the transfer represents more than a change of scenery — it’s a chance for new momentum in his college career.
“I am incredibly grateful to Southern University and for giving me the opportunity to develop, compete and represent this program,” Woods said on X, formerly Twitter. “Thank you to the coaching staff and most importantly to my teammates for pushing me every day and creating memories that will stay with me forever. After many prayers, thoughts and conversations with my family, I have decided to enter the transfer portal. It was not an easy choice, but I believe it is the best for me and my family.”
Committed to Hampton University. 🏴☠️ #copycats pic.twitter.com/O57Q1aqxCW
— Jalen Woods (@j_woods2) January 9, 2026
Hampton, a member of the Coastal Athletic Association, went 2-10 overall and 0-8 in the CAA last season.
Woods played in eight games and made three starts in his South career. He was the starting quarterback in Southern’s 24-14 win over Grambling in the 2024 Bayou Classic.
His addition bolsters the Pirates’ quarterback room ahead of spring training as Hampton looks to build on his previous season and contend in the Coastal Athletic Association.
