The 2026 Fordham Rams football team is entering a pivotal season as it rebuilds a linebacker corps that lost All‑America James Conway, the NCAA Division I career tackles record holder from 2025. Conway’s departure leaves a massive void, but the program is confident that experience and new talent can fill the gap.
Senior captain Andrew Osmun returns as the defensive anchor after a standout year in which he started all 12 games, amassed 100 total tackles, and contributed eight tackles for loss and a sack. Osmun’s leadership and consistency provide a solid foundation for the unit.
Joining Osmun are several key contributors who saw extensive action last season. Junior Jaylen Dawson appeared in eleven games with one start, posting 21 total tackles, while junior Christian Black logged nine tackles in all 12 contests. Junior Alex Fiala added four tackles, including one for loss, across ten games, and sophomore Tavian Fenderson saw limited action in three games as a freshman.
New Faces on the Horizon
The linebacker group welcomes three fresh prospects who bring high school accolades to the collegiate stage. Freshman AJ Revella earned All‑Zone honors at St. Joseph's Regional High School, while Wyatt Knapp, an All‑State selection from Park City High School in Utah, and Hayden Tumminia, another All‑State performer from Milton High School in Georgia, are expected to compete for meaningful snaps.
The Rams open the 2026 season on August 28 against Colgate University at Moglia Stadium. Tickets for the opening game are available through the Fordham Ticket website, giving fans an early chance to see the revamped defense in action.
With a blend of proven veterans and promising newcomers, the 2026 Fordham Rams hope to preserve the defensive dominance that has defined the program in recent years. The upcoming schedule will test the unit early, but the coaching staff remains optimistic that the depth and experience will translate into strong performances on the field.