The Denton Braswell Bengals, led by new head coach Justen Evans, aim to rebound from a challenging 2025 season where they finished 2-8. Historically, the Bengals have made the playoffs just once in their ten-year tenure, but they boast a promising roster with several underclassmen gaining experience last season. Key players include running back Zahir Trufant, who rushed for 617 yards and four touchdowns, and a solid defense featuring standout safety Emanuel Fuller with 95 tackles. With Evans' successful track record at Corpus Christi Miller, the Bengals may see significant improvement in 2026.

By the Numbers
  • Zahir Trufant: 120 carries for 617 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns in 2025
  • Emanuel Fuller: 95 tackles and five forced turnovers in his sophomore season
State of Play
  • Justen Evans steps in as head coach, aiming to turn around a struggling program.
  • Bengals return a strong core of players with significant playing time from the previous season.
  • The team looks for offensive and defensive balance with key contributors on both sides of the ball.
What's Next

As the Bengals prepare for the 2026 season, expectations may rise if they can capitalize on their experienced roster. Early games against Crandall and Dallas Skyline will set the tone for their upcoming district contests. A strong showing could shift perceptions about their playoff potential in District 5-6A.

Bottom Line

The Bengals are poised for a transformative season under Justen Evans. With a solid mix of returning talent and the potential for growth, 2026 could mark a turning point for the program in its pursuit of playoff success.