Felix Jones: 8 Potential Destinations for the Ex-Boks & England Coach

Highly-regarded coach Felix Jones is set to leave his role in Steve Borthwick's England set-up, leaving many wondering where he will go next.

Jones, who was instrumental in the Springboks' back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories, joined England's coaching staff in 2024, taking charge of the team's defence. He has been widely praised for his work, but has reportedly resigned, citing an "unstable working environment." This follows the departure of Aled Walters, who joined Andy Farrell's Ireland coaching team.

Although the RFU may activate a clause in Jones' contract requiring a 12-month notice period, it's highly likely that the 37-year-old will not be short of offers. Here are some of the potential destinations for the highly-sought-after coach:

A Return to the Springboks?

Jones left the Springboks prior to the 2023 Rugby World Cup to be closer to home. However, his impressive work with the team, particularly his defensive coaching, made a lasting impression on Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus. Erasmus has already assembled a formidable coaching team, but a return for Jones would be a major coup for the World Cup champions.

“It’s a big loss for the Springboks to lose a coach of Felix' calibre,” Erasmus said last year. "He’s been an asset to the Springboks in the last few years and the way he has evolved in his role and willingly took on additional responsibilities has been admirable."

A Move to Ireland?

It would be a major surprise if the IRFU didn't try to lure Jones to one of the provinces, or even to the national set-up. His experience and expertise would be a valuable asset to any of the four Irish unions. A reunion with former club Munster, or even Nienaber at Leinster, could be on the cards. Ulster and Connacht could also benefit from his coaching.

While Farrell's Ireland coaching team is already strong, Jones would be a welcome addition. Despite leaving Munster in 2019, a return to the red-and-green jersey could be a possibility. It would be a major oversight by the IRFU to not at least try to secure the services of one of the world's brightest young coaches.

A Switch to Wales?

This might seem like an outside bet, but Warren Gatland could be tempted to bring in Jones to bolster his coaching staff. Wales have endured a tough start to the year, and a coach of Jones' calibre could provide the young squad with the guidance they need.

Working with Gatland would also allow Jones to remain in Dublin, limiting his travel compared to a return to South Africa. While Gatland already has experienced coaches in attack and defence, Jones' versatility could allow him to contribute across multiple areas of the Welsh game.

A Move to the Top 14?

It's likely that at least one French Top 14 club will be in the running for Jones' signature, either as an assistant or potentially as a head coach. French clubs often offer lucrative packages, and the challenge of the Top 14 could be appealing to Jones. A reunion with former Munster teammate Ronan O'Gara at La Rochelle could be a possibility.

Whatever his next challenge, Felix Jones is a highly sought-after coach with a proven track record of success. He is sure to be in high demand, and whoever secures his services will be getting a top-class coach.