Jamal Hailey is poised to take the lead role at FAMU football after a breakout performance in 2025, where he scampered for 157 yards and three touchdowns against the Southern Jaguars last October.
He hopes to make those performances a weekly occurrence this year. Hailey's work ethic and process-driven approach have him aiming to become one of the top running backs in HBCU and college football.
Hailey was a rotational running back option behind last year's starter, Thad Franklin Jr., who graduated. Now, he's looking to make a name for himself under new head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr.
The 5-foot-11, 189-pounder chose to stay with FAMU after the school hired Gray as its 20th full-time head football coach. "Well, for him, it was his decision," Gray recalled. "We as a staff were new. He didn't know us from a can of paint, so he had to trust that we were going to have his best interest."
Hailey's ability to break free on handoffs and catch out of the backfield is tailor-made for Gray's fast-paced offense. He proved that on the opening drive of FAMU's spring football game back in April, where he 'shaked and baked' defenders before outpacing them for a 73-yard touchdown.
Playing for FAMU in the Sunshine State gave Hailey a fresh start. While Gray has known him for only a few months, he is proud of Hailey's resilience and choice to leave his past environments behind to pursue his NCAA Division I football career.
Hailey will sport the No. 2 jersey, switching from No. 28, as he looks to become one of the top rushers in the SWAC and a known name in the Football Championship Subdivision. FAMU's No. 2 jersey for offense was last worn by wide receiver Goldie Lawrence, who transferred up to play for Coastal Carolina of the Football Bowl Subdivision.
The Florida A&M football team is currently in preseason training camp ahead of the 2026 season. Camp ends on Aug. 22, and on Aug. 29, the Rattlers host the Albany State Golden Rams on Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium.
Source: Yahoo Sports