Mississippi State’s football program released its inaugural 2026 depth chart on August 31, just days before the Bulldogs open the season against Louisiana‑Monroe. The document offers a first look at how the coaching staff envisions the lineup for the upcoming campaign.
At quarterback, Kamario Taylor is locked in as the starter, with AJ Swann, Parker Puckett and Jaden Rashada listed as the primary backups. Taylor’s elevation to the top spot signals continuity at the helm of the offense.
The running back rotation features Fluff Bothwell projected as the starter, while Xavier Gayten, Kolin Wilson, JJ Hill and Cooper Crosby provide depth. At wide receiver, Anthony Evans III returns as the top receiver, flanked by Ayden Williams, Maquis Johnson and Zion Ragins, with a deep bench of Sanfrisco Magee, Gracen Harris, Matt Mayfield and Camden Capehart ready to contribute.
Offensive line overhaul
The offensive line sees a major shift, with four new starters joining Canon Boone at center. Miles McVay, DJ Chester, LJ Prudhomme and Jakheem Shumpert‑Perkins are slated to fill the open spots, bringing a mix of experience and fresh talent to the trenches.
Defensively, the Bulldogs will lean on edge rushers Amaree Williams and the emerging Will Whitson, who could become a pass‑rushing force if he stays healthy. Malick Sylla, currently ineligible, may join the rotation later in the season and is being considered for both defensive end and edge duties.
At linebacker, Zakari Tillman and Tyler Lockhart are listed as the projected starters, with Jalen Smith, Fatt Forrest, AJ Rice and James Heard Jr. providing depth. The secondary will be anchored by starting cornerbacks Kelley Jones and Jett Jefferson, while Isaac Smith moves closer to the line of scrimmage and Jardin Gilbert and Marcus Williams handle traditional safety responsibilities.
Special teams see kicker Kyle Ferrie returning as the primary leg, aiming to break the program’s career points and field‑goal records. Punter Ethan Pulliam holds the starting role, with Oisin Flynn as his backup.
Return duties will be shared among Marquis Johnson as the kick returner and Anthony Evans III handling punt returns, with Kolin Wilson, Zion Ragins and Bralan Womack listed as the next options on the depth chart.