Indiana State Football has officially named six team captains for the 2026 season, following a player vote. The leadership group consists of quarterback Elijah Owens, wide receiver KeShon Singleton, offensive lineman Drew Page, and linebackers Braxton Sampson, Alex Rose, and defensive lineman Kolten Gajewski. Owens becomes a three-time captain, continuing his role after a season-ending injury in 2025, while Singleton, Rose, and Gajewski earn captaincy honors for the first time. The experienced captains aim to lead the Sycamores in a competitive Missouri Valley Football Conference this upcoming season.

By the Numbers
  • Elijah Owens achieved 317 passing yards and 112 rushing yards before his injury in 2025.
  • Braxton Sampson recorded 73 total tackles, including 6.0 tackles for loss (TFL) and 1.0 sack.
  • KeShon Singleton had 25 receptions for 328 yards and two touchdowns last season.
State of Play
  • Owens returns as a key player after recovering from injury, looking to maintain his dual-threat capabilities.
  • Sampson is expected to bolster the defensive effort with his strong tackling stats.
  • Gajewski leads a defensive line that was ranked 20th in the FCS for tackles for loss per game.
What's Next

As the 2026 season approaches, the Sycamores look to build on last year's performance, striving for stronger offensive and defensive outputs. The team will rely on the leadership of their experienced captains to navigate their schedule and maximize their potential on the field.

Bottom Line

The appointment of three returning captains alongside three new leaders signals the Sycamores' commitment to combining experience and fresh perspectives as they prepare for a competitive season in the Missouri Valley Football Conference.