The celebratory cannon that has punctuated Florida A&M University’s football victories since 1986 is poised for a comeback. After being taken offline in 2023, the device will be restored and fired for the first time again during the 2026 season opener against Albany State on August 29 at Bragg Memorial Stadium.
The cannon’s return is the result of a community‑driven effort called "Restore the Strike," which raised more than $250,000 to cover the cannon’s refurbishment, scissor lifts, branding graphics, and a practice clock. The campaign underscored the deep emotional connection alumni and fans have with the tradition.
Head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. expressed enthusiasm about reviving the cannon while acknowledging the need to consider individuals with PTSD. He described the weapon as a "symbol of pride" that links past and present generations of Rattlers.
A Tradition Reborn
Originally placed on campus through a loan agreement with the National Guard and orchestrated by Col. Ronald Joe, a Vietnam veteran and FAMU professor, the cannon has been a staple of the university’s ROTC Rattler Battalion rituals. Its distinctive blast follows every touchdown, energizing players and spectators alike.
The 2026 schedule features a slate of high‑profile HBCU matchups, including contests against South Carolina State, Miami, Tennessee State, Alabama A&M, Jackson State, Arkansas‑Pine Bluff, Southern, Alcorn State, and Mississippi Valley State. The fast‑paced offense, led by new starters Isaiah Knowles, Jamal Hailey, Kieren Jackson, and Mike Peterson, will aim to capitalize on the renewed pageantry.
Beyond the cannon’s reactivation, the season will highlight the university’s broader commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing modern coaching philosophies along the Gulf Coast. Fans can expect a blend of tradition and innovation as the Rattlers take the field.