Central Michigan University’s football program has been generating buzz ahead of the 2026 season, as six of its players earned spots on the Pro Football Network’s preseason All-MAC teams. The recognition reflects a growing confidence in the Chippewas’ talent pool and sets a competitive tone for the upcoming campaign.
Preseason Honors
Defensive back Donavan Philord received the highest distinction, earning First Team honors. Wide receiver Langston Lewis, offensive lineman Jacob Booth and defensive back Justin Taylor were placed on the Second Team, while running back Jayden Clerveaux and offensive lineman Brady Ploucha were selected for the Third Team. The selections were announced in a recent PFN release that highlighted the depth of talent across the Mid‑American Conference.
Analysts and coaches alike have tempered expectations with optimism. The team is projected to finish somewhere between third and sixth in the 13‑team MAC standings, with the preseason poll of MAC coaches specifically forecasting a fifth‑place finish. Such a placement would mark a notable improvement over recent years and aligns with the ‘bowl bound’ narrative that several preseason publications have attached to the Chippewas.
The season will open on September 5 with a home matchup against New Mexico, kicking off at 10 p.m. Eastern, 8 p.m. Mountain time. The game marks the first of what promises to be a demanding non‑conference slate, after which Central Michigan will host six of its scheduled contests, including five Saturday afternoon games spread across September and October.
With a blend of experienced returnees and fresh talent, the Chippewas hope to translate preseason accolades into on‑field success. The upcoming schedule provides ample opportunity for the team to build momentum, especially as it navigates a home‑field advantage that could prove decisive in tightly contested MAC matchups.