Florida A&M’s football program is entering a pivotal 2026 season, guided by first‑year head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr., who arrives after a celebrated tenure at Albany State.
The Rattlers will begin a series of organized team activities on May 26, setting the tone for a busy summer that includes three distinct camps — a prospects camp, a seven‑on‑seven showcase and a big‑man clinic for linemen.
On July 15, Coach Gray and two of his players will represent FAMU at the SWAC Media Day in Birmingham, Alabama, where the team hopes to generate early buzz ahead of the upcoming campaign.
The season officially opens on August 29 with a home matchup against Albany State, kicking off a 12‑game slate that features a blend of familiar rivals and marquee opponents, including defending Division I Black College champions South Carolina State, College Football Playoff semifinalist Miami Hurricanes and the perennial Florida Classic foe Bethune‑Cookman.
Adding to the excitement, the Rattlers have welcomed a wave of transfers from Albany State, most notably quarterback Isaiah Knowles, the two‑time Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year, who is expected to inject fresh energy into the offense.
A demanding schedule
Facing such a varied schedule, the coaching staff emphasizes preparation and resilience, aiming to translate the momentum from the offseason into competitive performances on the field.