Offense
The quarterback position belongs to phenom Kamario Taylor. He is the highest ranked quarterback recruit in program history and that was on full display last season. At 6-foot-4 230 pounds, his dual threat ability is a joy to watch. He will continue to develop as a passer and give the Bulldogs a fighting chance in every game.
The running back room returns experience in Fluff Bothwell and Xavier Gayten. Bothwell had a great start to last season, but injuries slowed him down and had to miss a few games. If he stays healthy, he will run for over 1,000 yards this season.
The wide receiver room returns experience in Anthony Evans III, Ayden Williams, Francisco Magee, and tight end Sam West. The additions of Zion Ragins (Oklahoma), Marquis Johnson (Missouri), and tight end Riley Willaims (Oregon State) provide even more depth. Evans may be the most underappreciated wide receiver in the SEC.
The offensive line room returns some experience in Canon Boone, Blake Steen, and Jakheem Shumpert-Perkins. The additions of Tyler Miller (LSU), Ja’Elyne Matthews (Florida State), LJ Prudhomme (Arkansas), Jamari Freeman (Mercer), Isaiah Dent (Oklahoma), Mario Nash Jr. (Florida State), and Miles McVay (North Carolina), among others, are huge for this unit.
Defense
The defensive line room returns experience in Trevion Williams, Will Whitson, DJ Reed, Jaray Bledsoe, Kalvin Dinkins, and Diesel Moye. The additions of Dealyn Evans (Texas A&M), Jayson Jenkins (Florida State), and Gus Cordova (USC) provide a much-needed pop to this defense. As will new defensive coordinator Zach Arnett (who is returning to Mississippi State).
The linebacker room has plenty of talent. Zakari Tillman, Jalen Smith, Tyler Lockhart, and Derrion Gullette all have experience. The additions of Gav Holman (Florida State), Amaree Williams (Florida State), James Heard Jr. (Syracuse), and LaKendrick James (JUCO) provide even more star power to this unit.
The secondary returns experience in Isaac Smith, Jett Jefferson, Kelly Jones, and Tanner Johnson. Jones could be a 1st Round NFL Draft pick in 2027. The additions of Jordin Gilbert (LSU), Marcus Williams (Rice), Jamroc Grimsley (Florida), Kendel Dolby (Oklahoma), Kaylib Singelton (Syracuse), Quentin Taylor Jr. (Iowa State), Terrance Love (Colorado), and true freshman Bralan Womack are massive for this unit.
Specialists
This unit is in very good shape. Kyle Ferrie returns at kicker and already holds multiple program records. Punter Ethan Pulliam made the All-SEC team last season. There are also multiple weapons at the returner spots as well.
2026 Schedule
- 9/5 Louisiana Monroe
- 9/12 at Minnesota
- 9/19 at South Carolina
- 9/26 Missouri
- 10/3 Alabama
- 10/17 at LSU
- 10/24 Oklahoma
- 10/31 at Texas
- 11/7 Vanderbilt
- 11/14 Auburn
- 11/21 Tennessee Tech
- 11/27 at Ole Miss
Final Analysis
This is the deepest and most talented roster Jeff Lebby has had while in Starkville. Taking the program from two wins to five was a huge step last season. Returning to a bowl game is within reach if the offensive line and defense continue to improve. But stock in the Bulldogs.
