The Blueprint to the League: Donald Sweeney Tapped to Lead San Antonio Vipers

San Antonio, Texas / CRWE PRESS RELEASE / January 22, 2026 — The National Junior College Prep (NJCP) Football League is officially locking in veteran defensive mind Donald Sweeney as the Head Coach of the San Antonio Vipers. This move brings a high-energy JUCO developmental platform to South Texas, built specifically for high school grads and transfer portal athletes ready to get back on the radar. For athletes looking to keep their college dreams alive, the Vipers provide a clear path to national exposure and scholarship offers.

A Proven Pipeline to the NFL

Coach Sweeney’s reputation as an elite developer is backed by a track record of moving players to the highest levels of the game. His most notable success story is Robert Carter Jr., whom Sweeney built into a powerhouse defensive back and D2 All-American during their time at UVA-Wise.

Carter’s journey serves as the ultimate blueprint for the Vipers program:

• The Development: Under Sweeney’s wing, Carter leveled up from D2 to Robert Morris (D1).
• The Big Stage: He grabbed national attention with a viral one-handed interception against Utah State.
• The Pro Ranks: After dominating in the CFL where he earned a 96.2 PSC Rating and was named to the 2025 All-Pro First Team, he officially signed with the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts.

NFL Standards in San Antonio

Currently the Defensive Coordinator at Judson University, Coach Sweeney has consistently led units that rank among the nation’s best, including Top 5 finishes in pass defense. His coaching is fueled by his own grind as a standout in the AFL and IFL, where he earned multiple Rookie of the Year honors.

At the Vipers, Coach Sweeney is building a culture focused on accountability and pure technique. The mission is simple: develop athletes who prepare with a purpose to earn that next D1 or pro opportunity. By specializing in man-coverage and elite defensive back development, the program ensures that South Texas athletes are coached to the same standards seen on Sundays.

Registration Is Live

NJCP football tryouts and registration for the San Antonio Vipers are now officially open. Athletes in South Texas ready to sharpen their edge and get recruited for JUCO football should visit the league website for enrollment and location details.

About NJCP Football League: The National Junior College Prep Football League is a nationwide developmental organization focused on preparing student-athletes for success on and off the field. NJCP provides structured opportunities for high school graduates, transfer portal athletes, and overlooked players to continue competing while receiving coaching, mentorship, and exposure to collegiate programs. The league emphasizes accountability, education, leadership, and community service as core pillars of athlete development. For more information, please visit www.njcpfootball.com.

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