NEW MEXICO CHUPACABRAS NAME JEROME HAYWOOD INTERIM HEAD COACH

The New Mexico Chupacabras have announced that Head Coach Kyle Moore-Brown will be stepping away from his coaching duties. "We are grateful for Coach Brown's contributions to this organization and wish him great success in his future endeavors." said Mike Fietz, owner of the New Mexico Chupacabras. 

The New Mexico Chupacabras have named Jerome Haywood as Interim Head Coach for the remainder of the 2026 season. "Jerome's football résumé speaks for itself," said Mike Fietz, owner of the New Mexico Chupacabras. "He has succeeded at every level of the game—as a standout collegiate player, a veteran professional, and an accomplished coach. Just as importantly, he understands New Mexico and the passion our community has for football. We have complete confidence in his leadership and are excited about the future of our team under his guidance."

A respected football veteran with extensive experience as both a player and coach, Haywood brings more than two decades of football leadership to the Chupacabras organization. His coaching résumé includes serving as Defensive Line Coach at the University of New Mexico and coaching positions at San Diego State University, where he helped develop student-athletes and build successful programs.

As a player, Haywood was a standout defensive tackle at San Diego State University, earning Freshman of the Year honors and three All-Mountain West Conference selections. He went on to enjoy an eight-year professional career in the Canadian Football League, appearing in more than 100 games and competing in the 2007 Grey Cup Championship.

Haywood's ties to New Mexico run deep through his time coaching at the University of New Mexico, where he built strong relationships throughout the state's football community and helped mentor the next generation of athletes.

Fans can follow the New Mexico Chupacabras, view the latest schedule, and learn more at chupacabras.net.