Nikki Rowe hires former NLF player as Athletic Director

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — James Rowe High School is getting a new head football coach and athletic coordinator. Former NFL wide receiver Henry Jamaar Taylor is now leading the program at Nikki Rowe.

After an impressive Rio Grande Valley career with the Mission High Eagles in the 90s, Taylor went on to play for the NFL New York Giants in 2004 and 2005.

He was approved by the school board Friday.

“We did an extensive search and Coach Taylor’s name rose to the top,” McAllen ISD Superintendent Dr. René Gutiérrez said. “He has played at the highest levels of football, knows the game well, and, more importantly, is dedicated to creating pathways to success for the student-athletes in his programs.” 

Prior to this, Taylor served as the Offensive Co-Coordinator for the Weslaco East High Wildcats during the 2024 football season. He also held Offensive Coordinator positions at Edinburg Vela High from 2018 to 2024 and PSJA High from 2017 to 2018. 

Additionally, the coach owned an operated the Taylor Sports and Human Performance Lab in McAllen for many years.