We tell you everything you need to know about the 2026 Stratford Academy football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Eagles this season.
2025 Season Stats
- Overall Record: 11-2
- Points Scored: 437
- Points Allowed: 199
Key Roster Losses
Stratford Academy head coach Paul Carroll will lose a few key members of last year’s state championship team.
That includes defensive end and tight end Maddox Whitehead, who was a dominant presence on the defensive front in 2025 with 102 tackles, including 25 tackles for loss and 18 sacks. He also had 80 yards receiving with a touchdown from his tight end spot.
Running back Tyler Stephens was a workhorse who had 165 carries and 1,325 rushing yards last year despite being injured late in the season, according to Carroll. Stephens confirmed to ITG Next that he has signed with Independence College.
Utility player Ja’lon Smith, along with linemen Evan Devenney and Javious Clyde, are all key players Carroll said the team will miss.
Key Players Returning
Returning to the Eagles will be junior quarterback Tucker Johnston along with sophomore running back Aaron Jefferson, who stepped in for the injured Stephens late in the season last year and was crucial to the Eagles’ state title run, according to Carroll.
Senior receiver Jett Johnston, who will also play free safety, will be back this year, along with Josh Butts, who will return at cornerback and slot receiver.
Linebackers Riland Jones and Morris Butler will return, along with defensive end Travis “TJ” Dugger.
Returning to bolster the line will be center Thomas Gregory and guards Steve Sedfawy and Nathan Bonner.
Kicker and punter George Dunn will also be back.
What to Expect From the Stratford Academy Eagles in 2026
Carroll said he will have back much of the core group that were key contributors to Stratford’s state championship last year, but depth is a concern heading into 2026.
“Right now, we are only looking at about 32 guys on our roster,” Carroll said.
He said that is no excuse when it comes to the expectations he, his coaching staff, and the team have heading into the 2026 season.
“We expect to repeat as state champions,” Carroll said. “We have a great staff of coaches that have been together a while, so we know what we have to do.”
Carroll said some players will need to step up this year.
2026 Season Prediction
The Eagles will do it again in 2026. They have enough pieces in the right places to make another run. I see them going 12-2 and winning a second straight state championship.
Game to Watch
Sept. 11 versus Whitefield Academy
Stratford Academy’s 2026 Football Schedule
- 8/14 vs. Windsor Academy
- 8/21 vs. St. Anne-Pacelli
- 9/4 at Brookstone
- 9/11 vs. Whitefield Academy
- 9/18 at Westfield
- 9/25 vs. First Presbyterian Day
- 10/2 at Frederica Academy
- 10/9 at Mt. De Sales Academy
- 10/23 at John Milledge Academy
- 10/30 vs. Tattnall Square Academy
