Bio

Jenetrell Oliver has joined the Centenary football staff as Defensive Ends Coach/Analyst, head coach Byron Dawson has announced.

Oliver, a native of Keithville, La., is a practicing attorney and reunites with Dawson after playing for him at Evangel Christian Academy from 2009-12. Oliver was an All-State defensive lineman and was a part of two state championship teams.

Oliver continued his athletic career at the University of Louisiana, playing as a running back for the Ragin' Cajuns. During his tenure, he was part of two New Orleans Bowl championship teams. An injury sidelined him for a year, during which he pivoted to coaching, leading the defensive line at Southern Lab High School in Baton Rouge in 2014.

Upon graduating, Coach Oliver, Esq. took on the role of defensive coordinator at Logansport High School in 2016, where he orchestrated the team's first undefeated season and secured their second state championship in over 20 years. His success drew significant attention statewide, but he chose to pursue a dual JD-MBA degree at the Southern University Law Center.

After earning his degrees, Coach Oliver, Esq. returned home to establish Oliver & Watkins Legacy Law Firm LLC and 4Points Construction. Concurrently, he resumed his coaching career mid-season at Evangel Christian Academy, laying a strong foundation for a young, rebuilding team.

Despite venturing into corporate law with leading financial institutions like State Street and Edward Jones, Coach Oliver, Esq remained committed to mentoring and training athletes at various levels. He has facilitated numerous opportunities for athletes to secure NCAA scholarships and play at prestigious D1 schools such as Alabama and LSU. 

One of his current protégés, Gabriel Reliford, a 4-star freshman at LSU, had a standout performance in the 2024 spring game, and he is expected to have a significant role on the defense as a true freshman. His coaching has also extended to NFL-level athletes, including those from the Dallas Cowboys and Denver Broncos.

After over a decade in diverse roles, Coach Oliver, Esq. is reuniting with Coach Byron Dawson to elevate Centenary College's football program. As a defensive line coach, focusing on defensive ends and strategy, he aims to build on the team's existing success.

Oliver has four children: Skylar Oliver, Summer Oliver, Donell Oliver, & Kruz Oliver.