The Torrington High School Raiders finished the 2025 season with a 7-4 record in the MM Conference, only to see their playoff hopes end in a 48-6 quarterfinal defeat against Wilton.
Coach Gaitan Rodriguez, now in his 14th year at the helm, will rely on a defense that returns its entire line but must fill holes at linebacker and in the secondary with younger players.
Rebuilding the Offense
Three seasoned offensive linemen — including an All-State guard and a three-year center — have graduated, forcing the team to lean on newcomers such as Nick Coleman, Kevin Leavitt, Justin Evans and Naziah Lopez.
Aiden Hansen, the All-NVL tailback, also departed, opening the backfield for Coleman and Leavitt to share carries while Gabe Salamacha adds depth at receiver.
The Raiders’ schedule features only two teams that posted winning records last season — Ansonia and Fitch — but still presents a demanding slate of conference matchups against Kennedy, Crosby, Oxford and others.
Special teams will also see change, with place kicker Jackson Brewer-Karimi and punter Evan Roman no longer on the roster, prompting the coaching staff to integrate fresh talent.
Despite the turnover, Rodriguez remains optimistic that the blend of experienced defenders and developing offensive pieces can keep the Raiders competitive in the upcoming season.