Fall Camp Begins in Columbia
The University of Missouri’s football program opened its 2026 preseason camp this week in Columbia, drawing a crowd of reporters eager to glimpse the roster reshaping that will define the upcoming season.
At the heart of the discussion is the right tackle spot, where Logan Reichert and Luke Work are locked in a battle for the starting role. Both players have shown flashes of promise, but the coaching staff remains open to late additions such as Jack Lange or Colin Sorensen, who could shift the balance before the first game.
On the interior line, the left guard competition is equally intense. Tristan Wilson, who has added weight over the offseason, is currently favored over Mississippi State transfer Zack Owens, though Owens brings a pedigree that could make him a surprise contender.
Cornerback depth also remains a question mark. Nick DeLoach Jr. is battling for a starting spot alongside Jahlil Florence, Sione Laulea and Cam Keys, each bringing a different skill set to the secondary.
Defensive Front and Linebacker Outlook
Defensive end positions are wide open, with Daeden Hopkins emerging as a key candidate alongside Jaden Jones and other veterans like Kamauryn Morgan, Demarcus Johnson and Malik Bryant. The staff is evaluating who can best pressure the quarterback.
Linebacker spots are similarly fluid. While Robert Woodyard Jr. and Nicholas Rodriguez are slated to start, the program expects fierce competition from Jeremiah Beasley, Dante McClellan, Brian Huff, JJ Bush, Keenan Harris and Bobby Washington for the remaining snaps.
Quarterback and Special Teams
Quarterback remains settled, with Austin Simmons confirmed as the starter for the 2026 campaign, giving the offense a familiar face under center.
Special teams have few uncertainties; the kicker and punter roles appear locked in, leaving the coaching staff to focus on the competitive battles elsewhere.
The camp also highlighted the arrival of Arizona State transfer Josh Atkins, who missed time due to a leg injury, underscoring the team’s need for depth at right tackle.
Overall, the early camp provides a snapshot of a team in transition, where position battles will shape the Tigers’ identity heading into the 2026 season.