Football

Iowa Yellowjackets Aim to Defend State Football Crown Amid Roster Changes

Head coach Tommy Johns faces pressure as key departures loom, but returning stars Kaston Lewis and Lawston Broussard bring hope.

The Iowa Yellowjackets burst onto the state stage last season, capping a remarkable campaign with a 50‑43 victory over North DeSoto in the Non‑Select Division II title game. The win marked the program’s first ever championship and sparked a wave of optimism across the community.

Head coach Tommy Johns, who has guided the team through three seasons, says the mindset has evolved from simply climbing the ladder to sustaining a position at the top. "We’re no longer chasing a dream; we’re now defending it," he explained.

A Roster in Flux

The defense will lose several standouts, including Jeremiah Bushnell, J’Vien Adams and Kohl Fulton, but the offense retains playmakers who proved their mettle in the playoffs. Two‑way star Kaston Lewis returns after amassing over 800 yards and 20‑plus touchdowns in 2025, while quarterback Lawston Broussard will enter his junior year looking to build on clutch performances.

Broussard’s resurgence is especially crucial as the team navigates a schedule that promises tough matchups. His ability to deliver in high‑pressure moments could be the differentiator between a repeat title and a season of adjustment.

The regular season will serve as a litmus test for the Yellowjackets’ depth and resilience. Coach Johns acknowledges the heightened expectations, but remains focused on incremental progress rather than immediate perfection.

Fans and alumni have rallied around the program, turning each game into a celebration of the school’s growing football legacy. As the team prepares to hit the field, the blend of seasoned leadership and fresh talent promises an exciting chapter for Iowa’s football landscape.

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