The 2026 high school football season in northeast Louisiana is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with several programs eyeing state titles across different classifications.
Title Contenders
Ruston enters the season with a shot at its tenth state championship, riding the momentum of recent Division I nonselect finals appearances and a roster rich in experience.
Just a short distance away, Sterlington looks to three‑peat in the D‑III nonselect bracket, bolstered by a core of returning players who have already proven their durability.
River Oaks, riding the momentum of a third straight championship run, will lean on the addition of Cameron Bagwell, a transfer who brings a proven track record of clutch performances.
West Monroe will face a gauntlet of elite competition in D‑I nonselect, having previously squared off against powerhouses such as North DeSoto, Ruston and Neville, making every matchup a test of resilience.
Ouachita Christian, a seven‑time quarterfinalist, is projected to advance to the D‑IV select finals, continuing its tradition of deep playoff runs.
The Franklin Parish Patriots, featuring LSU commits Trey Martin and DJ Neal, are expected to make a significant impact in D‑II nonselect, adding depth to an already potent lineup.
Individual accolades are also a focal point, with Ahmad Hudson of Ruston emerging as a frontrunner for the LSWA Mr. Football award after helping the team to a runner‑up finish last fall.
Tre Burch from Sterlington, the recent Class 3A Mr. Football, recorded 118 tackles and four interceptions, positioning him as a key defensive anchor.
Elijah Haven of Dunham could become the first two‑time LSWA Mr. Football winner if he captures back‑to‑back titles, while Peyton Houston from Evangel and Easton Royal of Brother Martin are also among the top candidates.
Programs such as St. Frederick, Cedar Creek, Carroll and D'Arbonne Woods Charter are trending upward, while Union Parish and Jonesboro‑Hodge, fresh off quarterfinal appearances, remain strong contenders in their divisions.
Even traditional powerhouses like Ouachita and Jena, both boasting All‑State talent, are expected to be tough outs, and Mangham hopes to finally break its long‑standing drought of New Orleans appearances.
Finally, Oak Grove aims to overcome past quarterfinal exits and push deeper into the postseason, promising an exciting climax to the season.