Two on the offense and two on the defense
MARQUETTE, Mich. – Northern Michigan University head football coach Matt Janus has announced the addition of four assistant coaches to the Wildcats’ staff: Cade Garcia (Wide Receivers), Kyle Krezek (Defensive Line), Zach Metkler (Offensive Line), and Isaiah Powell-Major (Defensive Backs).
The four join coordinators Boomer Roepke and Ryan Bright, forming a staff with experience across Division I FBS, FCS, and Division II football, emphasizing player development, recruiting, and on-field success.
“What a group of coaches we have joining us in Marquette,” Janus said. “They bring a winning pedigree and will also UP the experience of our current student-athletes!”
Cade Garcia – Wide Receivers
Garcia joins NMU after serving as Offensive Assistant – Tight Ends Coach at Northern Arizona University (FCS) and as a Graduate Assistant Wide Receivers Coach at Carroll University. At Carroll, he also coordinated academic support for over 130 student-athletes, helping to improve overall team performance and player development.
A former quarterback at UW-La Crosse, Garcia earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics & Business Management and an MBA from Carroll University. His combined playing and coaching experience brings both strategic insight and mentorship to the Wildcats’ wide receiver group.
Kyle Krezek – Defensive Line
Krezek comes from Iowa State University, where he assisted the defensive line and linebackers on a team that went 11-3 in 2024, reached the Big 12 Championship, and finished ranked in the national top 15. He also contributed to recruiting and defensive analysis during his tenure, helping the program maintain high-level performance.
A former Iowa State defensive lineman, Krezek earned undergraduate degrees in Kinesiology and Psychology, as well as a Master’s in Healthcare Analytics and Operations. His experience as a player and coach at the FBS level adds depth and technical knowledge to NMU’s defensive line.
Zach Metkler – Offensive Line
Metkler brings experience from multiple collegiate levels, most recently as Assistant Offensive Line Coach/Offensive Analyst at Eastern Michigan University (FBS). He has also served as Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line/Tight Ends Coach at Manchester University, overseeing offensive strategy and player development.
A former four-year offensive lineman at Allegheny College, Metkler earned a degree in Neuroscience & Psychology. His diverse coaching background at multiple programs equips him to strengthen the Wildcats’ offensive line and overall offensive performance.
Isaiah Powell-Major – Defensive Backs
Powell-Major joins NMU from Wayne State College (Neb.), where he helped improve the team’s pass defense, finishing 10th nationally in Division II, tying for fourth in interceptions, and leading the NSIC in completion percentage allowed. He also played a key role in guiding the team to the 2025 NSIC South Division Championship.
A graduate of Fairmont State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Powell-Major combines strong technical knowledge with experience in developing defensive backs.
