Summer Gains: How NFL Veteran Terrance Plummer is Rebuilding JAA’s Championship Foundation in the Weight Room

Summer Gains: How NFL Veteran Terrance Plummer is Rebuilding JAA’s Championship Foundation in the Weight Room

As Jacksonville Athletic Academy prepares for a highly anticipated 2025 ICAA football season, one thing is clear—the Mocs are bigger, faster, and stronger. The transformation is being driven by new Strength and Conditioning Coach Terrance Plummer, whose professional pedigree and no-nonsense approach are reshaping the culture of the program from the inside out.

About Coach Terrance Plummer

A former NFL linebacker and UCF standout, Terrance Plummer brings elite playing experience and a championship mentality to JAA. During his career, Plummer suited up for the Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, and the CFL’s Toronto Argonauts, where he won a Grey Cup Championship in 2017. His background on both American and Canadian grids equips him to instill NFL-level discipline and intensity into every JAA athlete.

“Strength isn’t just about numbers—it’s about mindset,” said Plummer. “You don’t win in November if you don’t grind in July.”

Inside the Summer Strength Program

Since arriving at JAA, Plummer has implemented a rigorous strength and conditioning program that mirrors what he experienced as a professional. Focused on power development, explosion, and functional athleticism, the results have been transformative.

The 1000-Pound Club

Three JAA student-athletes reached elite status this summer by surpassing a combined 1,000 pounds across their bench press, front squat, and clean totals:

  • David Jones (DL/OL) – A force on both sides of the ball, Jones benched 365 pounds and continues to be a leader in the weight room and on the field.

  • Joel Campbell (MLB) – Known for his vocal leadership, Campbell now has the numbers to back it up after breaking into the club through relentless offseason work.

  • Marcial Holmes (DL) – The Concord University transfer shattered expectations with a front squat max of 415 pounds, earning respect across the roster.

Notable Personal Records

Several players made major gains this summer under Plummer’s watchful eye:

  • Connor McClendon (SS) – Back from injury, McClendon hit a 275-pound clean, signaling his return to full strength.

  • Manuel Licea (Freshman RB) – A freshman with early impact potential, Licea recorded a 315-pound bench press, turning heads across the staff.

  • Marcial Holmes – In addition to his front squat, Holmes emerged as one of the most physically dominant players on the team.

“Our focus is development,” said Plummer. “Each week, every player is adding something—strength, speed, confidence. That’s how you build a championship program.”

Strength Meets Strategy in the 2025 ICAA Title Race

As JAA sets its sights on the ICAA National Championship at Memorial Stadium in Savannah, Georgia, physicality will be a key driver. Head Coach Nolan Carroll credits Plummer with establishing the foundation that will power the Mocs through four quarters of elite-level competition.

“Terrance has elevated the standard,” Carroll said. “Our team isn’t just lifting more, they’re moving with purpose. That’s the type of discipline you need to win big games.”

The Road to Savannah Begins in the Weight Room

This summer was more than a training period—it was the launchpad for a program ready to rise. With a redefined strength culture and measurable gains across the roster, the Mocs are entering the season stronger than ever physically and mentally.