ALEX LONGHORNS
Coach: JACOB OTEY
3-7
Culture can define a football season, and at Alex, the Longhorns are determined to rewrite the script in 2026. After a difficult campaign a year ago, head coach Jacob Otey believes his team has embraced a renewed mindset heading into the fall. “A large focus is culture,” Otey said. “We had a fall in culture last year and these young men are excited to change the mindset of our team this season. Faith, Family, Football.” That mentality has become the foundation for a program looking to take meaningful steps forward while building a tougher, more disciplined identity.
Offensively, Alex returns five experienced contributors and plans to lean into a quick-hitting, ball-control philosophy out of its single tight end formation. Senior Rhiley Landeros (5-6, 155) gives the Longhorns versatility at slot back and fullback, while senior linemen Jackson Alexander (5-11, 345) and Rocky Byrd (6-0, 305) anchor the trenches with size and experience. Junior Aiden Pearson (5-10, 170) adds flexibility at slot and tight end, while junior Maddox Schultz (6-1, 185) provides physicality in the backfield. Sophomore Kaisyn Reeves (5-10, 175) is expected to take on a major role as the team’s starting quarterback after emerging as one of the program’s most promising young leaders. Coaches believe Reeves’ coachability and talent will help direct the Longhorns as they continue to grow.
Defensively, Alex brings back six starters and plans to rely on a “bend, don’t break” approach out of its 4-1 scheme. Junior James Ford (6-2, 205) headlines the defensive front at defensive end and tackle, while junior middle linebacker Aiden Young (5-10, 190) will help set the tone in the middle of the field. Senior Tragon Bates (5-10, 165) brings experience to the edge, and Reeves will again play a key role in the secondary at safety. With improved leadership and a renewed culture, the Longhorns hope to turn steady progress into wins this fall.
8-28 – Burns Flat-Dill City
9-4 – Destiny Christian
9-11 – Snyder
9-18 – Velma-Alma
9-25 – Elmore City
10-2 – Waurika
10-9 – Cyril
10-16 – Central
10-23 – Rush Springs
10-30 – Hollis
