WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Northwest football enters 2026 as a dangerous contender with something to prove.
While the Grizzlies bring back plenty of talent, several key contributors graduated last year.
Head coach Steve Martin will need to replace quarterback Jaylen Mason, running back Augie Fast and defensive standout Johnmichael Fountain.
The Grizzlies will miss the Fast-Mason tandem, but a new face will be under center in Breckston Young.
Dallas Gray will play a major role on defense, while Zyair Burton will be a huge weapon for Young's offense at receiver.
Martin and his players say the team's cohesiveness is what makes this group stand out.
“The more these guys are around each other, the harder they'll play for each other and be able to correct some things that us as coaches can't. When it comes from your teammates and stuff, guys that you trust, it's going to resonate a lot more. These guys have done a great job with that. The senior group has been together since second grade, and so you can really see the cohesiveness with these guys,” said Martin.
Chemistry will be a major contributor to the success of Martin's squad, with plenty of changes at the skill positions and seeing several new contributors stepping into bigger roles.
For senior wide receiver Jaelynn Ligon, the goal is simple.
“We just want to win. We want to get better as a team everyday and ultimately go out there and compete. That's it," said Ligon.
The Grizzlies open their season on the road at Bishop Carroll on Friday, Sept. 4.
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