A Revamped Linebacker Group
The Chanticleers enter the 2026 campaign with a linebacker unit that blends proven experience and fresh talent, a combination that coach Ryan Beard believes can anchor a more aggressive defense.
Preseason Honors
Tray Brown and Se’Von McDowell, both of whom made nine starts last season, are back and have already earned preseason recognition, with McDowell selected to the Preseason All‑Sun Belt Second Team by Phil Steele and Athlon Sports. Brown’s 2025 campaign saw him appear in every game, tallying 54 tackles and leading the team with 11.5 tackles for loss, numbers that placed him fourth on the squad and highlighted his knack for disrupting opposing offenses.
Veteran Depth
Senior Wyatt Gedeon brings 25 career appearances and 10 starts from 2024, during which he recorded 36 tackles and three turnovers, providing a steady presence alongside the younger core.
Transfer Impact
The most notable influx comes from transfer Jordan Thompson, who arrived from Western Carolina after leading the Catamounts with 93 tackles and earning Second Team All‑Southern Conference honors, and who also posted 7.0 tackles for loss, two sacks and 10 quarterback hurries. Adding to the mix, Marcellius Pulliam, a Power Four alumnus who logged 13 collegiate appearances at Michigan State, including a memorable interception, brings a blend of size and playmaking ability. Garrett Orgas, a recent addition from Pearl River Community College, arrives with a junior‑college résumé that includes 51 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, an interception and a forced fumble, promising immediate impact. Finally, Braxton Starnes, a Missouri State transfer, rejoins head coach Ryan Beard after a freshman season in which he saw action in six games, adding depth at a position where versatility is prized.
High School Standout
Romello Patterson, a standout from West Florence High School who earned Region 5 Defensive Player of the Year honors, rounds out the group with a reputation for hard‑hitting, disciplined play that could translate quickly to the collegiate level.