Spring football workouts have kicked off across Northwest Louisiana, with three local high school programs — Byrd, Logansport and Mansfield — using the offseason to fine‑tune schemes and build chemistry before the fall campaign.
Byrd’s Defensive Turnaround
After a challenging 2‑8 campaign last year, the Yellow Jackets are emphasizing a stronger defense. Key returnees such as Christian Maxie, who amassed 1,553 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns in the previous season, are expected to anchor the unit, while quarterbacks Leo Ezernack and Jackson Davis showed promising flashes during spring drills.
Logansport’s Offensive Shift
The Tigers are adopting a faster‑paced offense this spring, while their defensive line remains a cornerstone. Twins Jaylon and Jaydon Perkins, each listed at 6‑foot‑3½ and 215 pounds, headline a group that should generate pressure, and senior King Jones, who transitioned from safety to linebacker after an intensive weight‑room program, is expected to add experience to the front.
Mansfield’s Depth Initiative
Injuries limited the Panthers’ lineup during spring, prompting coach Darrell Barbay to focus on developing depth. The staff praised the emergence of defensive linemen Tarvarius Wells and Levi Jackson, while also monitoring the progress of Sayvion Sanders, who is working to earn more snaps.
With each program laying groundwork in distinct areas — Byrd’s defense, Logansport’s tempo and Mansfield’s roster flexibility — coaches and players alike are optimistic that the preparations will translate into stronger performances when the regular season begins.