We tell you everything you need to know about the 2026 Sumter County High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Panthers this season.
2025 Season Stats
- Overall Record: 12-2
- Points Scored: 578
- Points Allowed: 122
Key Roster Losses
The Sumter County Panthers will say goodbye to running back and outside linebacker Aaron “AJ” Kearse, who first gained attention as a middle school standout and continued to make his mark on the Panthers football program. Kearse rushed for over 3,000 career yards and recorded over 250 tackles from his defensive spot, earning him an opportunity to play collegiately at Eastern Michigan University, where he enrolled early.
Other key losses on offense include wide receiver Omari Woodard, who signed with Charleston Southern; quarterback Ishmael Jones; and offensive tackle Bryce Volley, according to head coach Will Rogers.
On defense, the Panthers have graduated First Team All-State defensive tackle Josh Coleman, who will attend Ball State University, and middle linebacker Kendall Thomas.
Key Players Returning
The Panthers will welcome back eight starters on offense, including wide receiver Ayden “Pocket” Robinson, who turned a lot of heads as a freshman receiver in the Panthers offense.
He’ll be a target for incoming sophomore quarterback Max Copley, who transferred into the Panthers program this offseason.
Returning along the offensive line will be junior offensive tackle Ayden Arnett.
Among the four returning starters on defense are senior defensive tackle Jamiquel Solomon, sophomore defensive back Glendon Hill, and sophomore defensive end Tyquan Davis.
What to Expect From the Sumter County Panthers in 2026
Rogers took the Panthers deep into the playoffs last year, falling to Hapeville Charter in the semifinals and finishing 12-2. That, along with a 10-2 record in 2024, has the Sumter County football community excited about what 2026 will bring. There is a lot of returning talent, and according to Rogers the expectations come down to one goal.
“My expectation for the 2026 season is to make another deep run in the playoffs and once again compete for a state championship,” Rogers said.
2026 Season Prediction
I predict a 12-3 overall record and a trip to the Class 3A state finals for Sumter County.
Game to Watch
Oct. 30 versus Carver, Columbus
Sumter County’s 2026 Football Schedule
- 8/21 at Dutchtown
- 8/28 vs. Dougherty
- 9/04 at Harris County
- 9/1 at Early County
- 9/18 vs. Veterans
- 10/02 vs. Monroe
- 10/09 vs. Crisp County
- 10/23 at Worth County
- 10/30 vs. Carver, Columbus
- 11/06 at Kendrick
