Hazely surprised by Hoke news
Jemond Hazely had heard rumors that coach Brady Hoke was going to leave San Diego State for Michigan but when the official news broke on Tuesday the Corona (Calif.) Santiago wide receiver was still shocked.
The 6-foot, 166-pound prospect said he plans to remain committed to San Diego State but wants to see who the Aztecs hire in Hoke's place. Multiple reports said defensive coordinator Rocky Long has been promoted to head coach.
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"It's a big shock seeing how good of a coach (Hoke) was and how he was able to turn the program around so quickly," Hazely said. "I see some of the other coaches will have a chance to get a promotion so we'll see how it works out.
"I definitely want to see who they hire. It gives a clean slate to everybody as a player, it means there won't be any favorites and everybody gets to prove who they are as a player. I definitely want to see who they hire but I'm going to stick with my commitment right now."
Hoke was one of the leading candidates ever since Michigan fired Rich Rodriguez after three seasons.
The Wolverines met with LSU coach Les Miles earlier this week but Miles decided to stay in Baton Rouge. That's when Michigan quickly turned to Hoke, who accepted the job.
"I saw it coming a bit with the stories and stuff but I am shocked by him taking the job," Hazely said.
"When you have a chance to step up to a program with better tradition I guess I can see where he's coming from so I can't be totally mad at it. I am shocked though."
The two-star prospect by Rivals.com said while he's still committed to San Diego State that Fresno State, Colorado State and Hawaii have been showing interest.
Depending on whether Hazely likes the Long hire will determine if he'll look at other programs or stick with the Aztecs.