Fall camp at Purdue University is already generating buzz as head coach Barry Odom prepares his squad for the upcoming season. After a disappointing 2‑10 record in 2025 that left the Boilermakers without a conference win, Odom and his staff are focused on building a more competitive unit.
The offense will be anchored by senior quarterback Ryan Browne, who threw for 2,153 yards and nine touchdowns last year. Browne’s experience and poise in the pocket have earned him the starting nod for the season opener against Indiana State.
Projected Offensive Skill Positions
At running back, Fame Ijeboi is the frontrunner to carry the load. Coaches praise his blend of size, vision and speed, traits that could help the ground game rebound from last season’s struggles.
The receiving corps will feature Bisi Owens, De’Nylon Morrissette and Asaad Waseem as the projected starters. Each brings a different skill set, from Owens’ precise route running to Morrissette’s deep‑threat ability and Waseem’s agility after the catch.
George Burhenn is slated to start at tight end, where his versatility in both blocking and receiving is expected to add a dynamic dimension to the passing attack.
The offensive line will be manned by Joey Tanona, Micah Banuelos, Boaz Stanley, Marques Easley and Nuku Mafi. This group is tasked with providing the protection Browne needs to execute the offense effectively.
Defensive Front and Backend
Defensively, the line will rely on Curt Neal and TJ Lindsey to shore up run‑stopping, a unit that struggled in 2025. Their experience on the edge could be pivotal in setting the tone up front.
In the linebacker corps, Charles Correa, Jojo Hayden and Tre Moore are projected to start, bringing a mix of seasoned play and youthful talent to the middle of the defense.
The secondary will feature Mister Clark, Hudauri Hines, Jaden Mangham and Smiley Bradford as the starting defensive backs, offering a blend of coverage skills and physicality.
Special teams will see Seth Turner handle kicking duties despite a limited field‑goal résumé, while punter Dylan Drennan, a transfer from Buffalo with All‑MAC honors, takes over the punting role. Long snapper Luke Raab returns to his familiar position, and the return game will be anchored by Xavier Townsend and Travis Terrell Jr., with Townsend also slated for punt returns.