10/18/2025
UMass Dartmouth Football : The Treatment of Najee Barros Under Coach Josh Sylvester is at another level.
As the UMass Dartmouth football season unfolds, one narrative stands out starkly against the backdrop of the Corsairs' struggles: the treatment of assistant coach Najee Barros. Once regarded as the heartbeat of the team, Barros now finds himself sidelined and marginalized under head coach Josh Sylvester, raising serious concerns about the leadership and direction of the program.
Barros has been an integral part of the Corsairs' success over the past few years, known for his dedication, passion, and ability to connect with players. However, this season, his role has been drastically diminished. Reports indicate that Sylvester has effectively locked Barros away, limiting his contributions and visibility within the team. This behavior not only undermines Barros’s experience and value but also creates a toxic environment that is detrimental to the entire coaching staff and players alike.
The fallout from the departure of former coach Cornbread and the heartbeat of the team, Ryan McCormack, has left Sylvester at a loss. Critics argue that he lacks the vision and strategic mindset needed to lead the Corsairs effectively. His inability to call plays and manage the team has become increasingly evident, with players reportedly feeling directionless and frustrated.
What’s more alarming is the treatment of Barros during this tumultuous time. Despite being stripped of his pay, he chose to remain loyal to the program, demonstrating commendable resilience in the face of adversity. Yet, the isolation and lack of respect he has faced from Sylvester raise serious ethical questions. A coach's role should be to uplift and empower their assistants, not to diminish them to the point of invisibility. And treat them less then.
Sylvester’s actions suggest a troubling mindset, one that prioritizes personal grievances and vendettas over the well-being of his staff and players. The whispers of discontent are growing louder, with many within the UMass Dartmouth community calling for accountability. The current state of the program is a stark contrast to the supportive culture that Barros and previous coaches worked hard to cultivate.
It is crucial for the administration to recognize the negative impact of Sylvester’s coaching style on the team’s morale and performance. The treatment of Najee Barros is not just an issue of one individual but reflects a broader problem within the leadership of UMass Dartmouth football . The community deserves a program that values its coaches and players and fosters an environment of respect and collaboration.
As the Corsairs continue their season, the spotlight is on Josh Sylvester and his ability to lead effectively. The treatment of Najee Barros is a call to action for the administration to reassess the direction of the program and ensure that all members of the coaching staff are treated with dignity. UMass Dartmouth football has a legacy to uphold, and it’s time to restore the values of respect and teamwork that have been lost in the current turmoil.
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