The 2026 football season for the Steilacoom Sentinels is set to begin in early September, bringing with it a fresh set of expectations and challenges for the program.
New Coaching Direction
Head coach Hunter Talen, in his inaugural year at Steilacoom High School, has infused the squad with a clear vision drawn from the explosive speed of junior running back Noah Maxwell.
Maxwell, a two‑way standout who can line up at running back or defensive safety, is expected to anchor the offense and provide a playmaking spark on both sides of the ball.
At quarterback, junior Titus Kaeka returns with a proven track record, having thrown for 27 touchdowns and added two rushing scores in the previous season, earning praise for his poise and leadership under pressure.
The receiving corps will be reshaped after wideout Jaleo Johnson, who ranked fourth statewide in receiving yards last year, is projected to miss the entire campaign due to a knee injury, opening opportunities for twitchy prospect Ryan Gill and speedy junior Ben Byrd.
Defensive Strength and Community Outlook
Defensively, the Sentinels boast inside linebacker Beau Weaver and lineman Bo Hofstetter, both of whom contributed to an 8‑3 record in 2025 and will look to tighten a unit that aims to compete in the Class 2A South Puget Sound League.
The team’s first home test arrives on September 4 when they host Olympic High School, kicking off at 7 p.m., a game that will serve as a barometer for the squad’s progress and the community’s belief in its ability to rise.