The 2026 football season for the Coyotes hinges on maintaining player health and depth following a tumultuous previous year plagued by injuries to key players. Head coach Matt Middleton emphasizes the importance of having strong backups, as past injuries revealed significant depth issues. Despite these challenges, the Coyotes ended last season with a solid 7-4 record and are optimistic for 2026, thanks to a large influx of talented transfers and a competitive environment for positions. The team starts preparations for the upcoming season on August 29, facing a challenging schedule that includes several top-ranked opponents.

By the Numbers
  • The Coyotes finished the 2025 season with a record of 7-4.
  • Tailback D'Heaven Domena rushed for 1,388 yards and 10 touchdowns as a replacement starter.
  • 92 players were on campus this summer for training, compared to only 20 the previous year.
State of Play
  • Middleton brought in numerous transfers with prior successful collegiate experience.
  • The starting quarterback position is currently competitive, featuring three incoming transfers.
  • The upcoming schedule includes multiple nationally ranked teams, including Friends, McPherson, and Southwestern.
What's Next

As the season approaches, the Coyotes will finalize their starting lineup while preparing for the physically demanding schedule. Maintaining health will be crucial in maximizing performance throughout the regular season. Middleton will focus on player development and cohesion, aiming for a strong start against Ottawa.

Bottom Line

The Coyotes must learn from last season's injuries and prioritize depth and health to succeed in the competitive landscape of their division. With fresh talent and a strong training commitment, the team's potential is promising, but execution on the field will ultimately dictate their success.