By Brian Gosset
After leading West Mesquite to its two winningest football seasons in program history, head coach Stephen Jackson Jr. is headed to Lancaster, the school announced on Wednesday.
“Coach Jackson is a proven leader with a strong vision,” said Lancaster ISD Director of Athletics, Kendrick Brown in a press release. “His commitment to excellence and character perfectly aligns with the culture we are building at Lancaster High School. We are excited to welcome him to Lancaster and we are excited for this new era of football in WEBO Nation.”
“I am excited to be a part of a program that has a rich history,” added Jackson. “It’s an honor to follow the footsteps of coaches like Chris Gilbert and other legendary coaches that have been in Lancaster. I am honored to be part of that legacy, and eager to put my own mark on this outstanding program.
“We want community support and support looks a lot of different ways. We can’t achieve success without four aspects: community, administration, coaches, and athletes. When we all come together, we are going to be something special.”
Jackson took over a Wranglers program before the 2024 season – coming off a 3-7 record and six straight losing seasons. Jackson led West Mesquite to back-to-back 11-win campaigns.
The Wranglers went undefeated in district both years – last year’s district championship was their first since winning three in a row from 2008 to 2010. It was their first outright title since 1995.
Additionally, last season, West Mesquite went unbeaten in the regular season – its first undefeated regular season since 1995. Last season the team beat McKinney North 28-14 in the first round of the playoffs, its first playoff win since 2016.
The Wranglers beat Frisco and Midlothian in the playoffs this past season – reaching the third round for the first time since 2010. After the offense scored 484 points in 12 games during 2024, WM scored 604 points in 13 games during 2025.
Jackson Jr. also spent time at Duncanville, Red Oak, Wilmer-Hutchins and Seagoville.
Lancaster went 3-7 this past season. Leon Paul resigned in November. It was the first time the Tigers missed the playoffs since 2017 and it was their fewest wins since 2003.
Lancaster is expected to drop back down to Class 5A with the UIL realignment for 2026-2028 announced in February.
