The University of Wyoming’s football squad is gearing up for the upcoming season with a wave of new talent arriving on campus. Head coach Mason Drube has emphasized the need to refresh the offense, and the roster moves reflect a deliberate effort to add speed, size and versatility.
A handful of veterans, including running back Samuel "Tote" Harris, defensive tackles Dante Drake and defensive end Jayden Williams, are set to return and provide continuity. Their experience should help anchor a unit that finished the previous season with modest offensive statistics.
New Faces on the Horizon
Among the fresh additions, running back Markell Holman stands out after a prolific 2025 campaign that saw him top the Ohio Valley Conference with 1,063 rushing yards. He broke the 100‑yard rushing mark five times in a single season, underscoring his ability to dominate games on the ground.
Holman’s college journey has taken him from Lackawanna College to Saint Francis University before landing at Western Illinois, where he refined his craft and attracted attention from Division I programs. Despite a strong track record, he has often flown under the recruiting radar, a fact he attributes to a combination of size and the competitive nature of his previous conferences.
The Cowboys will also field a new quarterback in Tyler Hughes, who still has one year of eligibility remaining. Hughes is expected to bring a different skill set to the position, adding a layer of unpredictability that could benefit the offense.
Alongside Holman, the line will welcome interior linemen Chandler Donaway, Jason Maciejcak and Jeremiah Katt, while wide receiver Mason Drube adds depth at the skill positions. The blend of returning starters and newcomers creates a competitive environment that could elevate the entire unit.
Departures have also shaped the roster narrative. The team lost its top four outside targets, including leading receiver Chris Durr Jr., as well as impact cornerbacks Tyrese Boss and Markie Grant. Their exits open opportunities for younger players to step into larger roles.
Overall, the coaching staff views the offseason as a pivotal moment to reshape the team's identity. By integrating experienced transfers, preserving key returning players and addressing gaps left by departed stars, Wyoming aims to compete more aggressively in the Mountain West and to present a more dynamic offense for fans to rally behind.