A milestone season
The Chattanooga Mocs are entering a pivotal phase of preparation as they work toward the 2026 football season, marking the second weekend of camp with a sense of momentum and tradition.
The team’s schedule opens earlier than it has in nearly a decade, with a home game slated for August 27 against Carrollton, Georgia. That date represents the earliest start since the 2017 season and sets the tone for a campaign that celebrates the program’s 50th year in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision.
Roster construction reflects a blend of experience and fresh talent. Thirteen starters return from the previous year, complemented by 59 letter‑winners and a group of 18 transfers who have logged starting minutes across the Division I, II, III and NAIA levels. Four specialist positions — kicker Jude Kelley, punter Heath Jehu, long snapper Will Davidson and kickoff specialist Gray Kelley — bring proven reliability to the unit.
New faces and returning alumni
This season also welcomes 23 high‑school signees who have signed directly with the Mocs, adding depth to the incoming class. At the same time, the third annual “Back to Camp” event will bring 28 alumni — referred to as O.M.’s — back to Scrappy Moore Field, underscoring the program’s strong connection to its former players.
The combination of seasoned veterans, promising newcomers and a revitalized alumni presence creates a narrative that extends beyond the field. As the team finalizes its preparations, the upcoming game against Carrollton, Georgia, will serve as the first measurable test of a roster that is both rooted in tradition and poised for evolution.