Arkansas State football team hopes to capitalize on momentum heading into 2026 | Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Arkansas State football team hopes to capitalize on momentum heading into 2026 as it discussed its offseason outlook at Sun Belt Football Media Days in New Orleans. The program appeared on Thursday’s final day at the New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District, with head coach Butch Jones joined by preseason standouts Chauncy Cobb and Brandon Barnes. Coming off a 7-6 record in 2025, Arkansas State finished with a 34-28 victory over Missouri State in the Xbox Bowl. Jones said the Red Wolves’ standards and culture remain firmly in place despite roster uncertainty, noting that more than 60 players are new and only 13 starters from last season are returning. Barnes referenced “Connection Saturday” team bonding, while Cobb, left guard Tristian Smith, and running back Kenyon Clay were all named preseason all-conference. A major storyline is quarterback competition after Jaylen Raynor transferred to Iowa State, with Ethan Crawford, Trey Owens, Drew Dickey, and Jeremy St-Hilaire involved.