Kumonde Hines recommits to Texas State

When James Madison football coach Everett Withers announced he was taking the head coach position at Texas State, it sent shock waves throughout the Virginia social media community.

L.C. Bird defensive back Kumonde Hines made an announcement shortly thereafter. The once JMU commit would be following Withers on a full ride to Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas- just southwest of Austin.

“Coach Withers seems like a great person and I felt like he was very loyal to me,” Hines said.

Hines was an important piece to the Skyhawks’ defensive puzzle in 2015 as he provided excellent coverage and showed an excellent ability to play against the run. The now-Bobcat tallied 41 tackles, eight for a loss while recovering two fumbles and intercepting a pass. On those three opportunities, Hines scored two defensive touchdowns.

“I played a lot better my senior year,” said Hines. “I loved the family atmosphere from my brothers and coaches. I take from it leadership and loyalty.”

Withers leaves JMU after two successful seasons, including a 9-3 season last year that culminated in a playoff berth. His tenure included an appearance on ESPN’s College Game Day that brought a gigantic crowd and tons of national exposure to the program. Texas State finished last season 3-9.

Hines, a 6-3 208 pounder, projects to be a hard-hitting type safety that plays up on the run, or if he added weight, could feasibly fill in at or play linebacker. Texas State graduated several members of their secondary, so he could see more playing time sooner.

The Skyhawks ended a run of three straight state championships and finished the year 11-1, falling to Hermitage 21-12 in the second round of the 5A South Playoffs at Randolph Macon.