A New Era for the Rattlers
Florida A&M’s football program is gearing up for its first season under head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr., a veteran strategist who takes the reins of the Rattlers after a storied playing and coaching career. Gray’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the university as it seeks to rebuild momentum and contend within the SWAC.
Preseason Honors Skip the Rattlers
The conference’s preseason All‑SWAC teams were announced recently, and the Rattlers found no representatives on the lists. Alabama State led the way with nine selections, while Jackson State, Bethune‑Cookman, Alcorn State and several other members each contributed six players. Notably, the preseason teams traditionally omit transfer athletes, a factor that may have influenced the Rattlers’ absence.
Nevertheless, the team retains a core of experienced playmakers who could reshape the narrative. Quarterback Isaiah Knowles returns after a solid outing, while running back Jamal Hailey brings a blend of rushing and receiving prowess. Edge rusher Antonio Camon Jr. also headlines the defensive unit, having posted 19 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and a team‑leading four sacks in the previous season.
Hailey’s production included 84 carries for 516 yards and six touchdowns, complemented by 31 receptions for 199 yards and two scores. Camon’s pass‑rushing impact was evident in his sack total, underscoring his role as a disruptive force on the edge. Both players are expected to be central figures in the Rattlers’ offensive and defensive schemes.
Adding to the buzz, the Rattlers will participate in SWAC Media Day in Birmingham on July 15, where they will meet peers, coaches and fans ahead of the upcoming campaign. The 2026 season officially begins at home against Albany State on August 29, with the game scheduled for Ken Riley Field at Bragg Memorial Stadium in Tallahassee.
The upcoming schedule promises a test against non‑conference opponents, including a matchup with Albany State, while the team prepares for conference play that will see them travel to face rivals such as Jackson State and Bethune‑Cookman. Early expectations suggest that the Rattlers could surprise many analysts who have traditionally overlooked them in preseason assessments.