As the Blazers football team starts a new season with a new coach, it’s also introducing several high-profile transfer students who are likely to have a big impact on the team’s future.

Among them are quarterback Harris Boyd and linebacker Jaden Dawkins.

New Head Coach Graham Craig talked about the importance of this year’s transfer class.

“Obviously we want transfers who can immediately compete for time,” he said. “But just as important, we’re looking for players who buy into VSU’s culture. We feel really good about the guys we’ve brought in so far.”

“Leadership has already started to emerge,” Craig said.  “I think those roles are starting to develop on both sides of the ball,” he said. “That’s what we want to see.”

One of those transfers is Jaden Dawkins, a 6’0, 210-lb linebacker from Stamford, Connecticut. After five four years at Long Island University, where he played both linebacker and briefly running back, Dawkins entered the transfer portal looking for a complete package.

“Some schools offered classes but not room and board,” Dawkins said. “VSU gave me everything I needed. That made the decision easier.”

Dawkins brings speed and physicality to the Blazers’ defense.

“I’d say I’m a finesse linebacker. I like to get around blocks, but I’m still aggressive. I love to hit,” he explained. “Playing fast is what I do best.”

Dawkins has already earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and has begun graduate studies at VSU.