The University of New Mexico Lobos football program continues its transformation under head coach Jason Eck with the addition of six key staff members, each bringing valuable experience and proven success to Albuquerque. The new hires, many of whom share a history with Eck from their time at the University of Idaho, are set to play pivotal roles in shaping the Lobos' performance on and off the field.
Luke Schleusner – Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach
Luke Schleusner joins Eck's staff as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, a position he also held at Idaho under Eck. Schleusner's expertise helped guide a dynamic offense for the Vandals, and his familiarity with Eck's system ensures a seamless transition. He is expected to revamp the Lobos' offensive strategy and help elevate the quarterback room's performance.
Cody Booth – Offensive Line Coach
Cody Booth takes over as the offensive line coach after three seasons in the same role at Idaho. Booth’s impact on the offensive line was evident as Idaho’s front played a crucial role in the team’s success. Before joining Eck’s staff at Idaho, Booth served as the tight ends coach at Colorado State, where he played a key role in tight end Trey McBride’s 2021 Mackey Award-winning season. Booth’s ability to develop talent and enhance line play is a significant asset for the Lobos.
Dan Jackson – Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach
Dan Jackson assumes the role of defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, bringing a wealth of experience to the Lobos. Jackson previously worked with Eck at South Dakota State from 2016-19 and reunited with him at Idaho, where his defense allowed an impressive 25 points per game last season, the fourth-best mark in the Big Sky Conference. Jackson’s track record of developing tough, disciplined defenses will be critical as the Lobos seek to improve on that side of the ball.
Hebron Fangupo – Defensive Line Coach
Hebron Fangupo joins the Lobos as the defensive line coach after serving in the same capacity at Idaho last season. Fangupo’s ability to develop strong defensive fronts was evident during his time at Idaho and previously at Utah Tech, where he coached from 2019-22. A native of Santa Ana, California, Fangupo also brings experience from a stint as a defensive analyst at Texas Southern, making him a valuable addition to the Lobos’ defensive staff.
John Waters – Director of Scouting
John Waters steps into the role of director of scouting, bringing a keen eye for talent evaluation to Albuquerque. Waters was a recruiting quality control assistant at Idaho last season and previously worked as a defensive quality control assistant at Butler. A Phoenix native and Arizona State graduate, Waters is tasked with enhancing the Lobos’ recruiting efforts and identifying talent to build the program's future.
Caleb Heim – Head Strength and Conditioning Coach
Caleb Heim joins the Lobos as the head strength and conditioning coach, following a successful tenure at Idaho in the same position. Heim’s extensive background includes stints at South Dakota, Nebraska, and Southwest Minnesota State, where he honed his ability to prepare athletes physically and mentally for the demands of collegiate football. His leadership in the weight room is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s development.
LoboLand: Familiar Faces, Fresh Start
The addition of these six staff members marks an important step forward for the Lobos as they aim to rebuild the program under Eck’s leadership. The shared history among many of these coaches ensures a cohesive vision and strategy for the team, while their collective expertise promises to make an immediate impact both on the field and in recruiting.
