The McNeese State Cowboys are set to begin their spring football camp on February 27, 2026, under the leadership of head coach Matt Viator. This marks his second season in charge as the team looks to build momentum following a challenging 5-7 season, during which they won four of their last six games. The excitement is palpable among players as they prepare for the upcoming workouts.
Quarterback Jake Strong, who started 11 of 12 games last season, expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with teammates. “We are all excited to get back going as a full group,” he said. Strong, who transferred from Texas Tech, threw for 2,008 yards and 11 touchdowns last season, while also contributing seven rushing touchdowns. Despite some challenges, including 13 interceptions and dropped passes, he is optimistic about the new season.
New Additions and Strategic Focus
The Cowboys have bolstered their roster significantly, adding 28 newcomers from the transfer portal and junior colleges. This recruiting class has been highly regarded, ranked No. 1 in the Southland Conference and No. 13 nationally among FCS teams by 247Sports. The integration of these new players will be key as the team commences its first of 15 practices, which will include three scrimmages throughout March, concluding just before spring break.
Coach Viator noted that the earlier-than-usual start to spring camp aligns well with their schedule. “I think it works better with our schedule,” he stated. “We get a long break with spring and Easter, so it would be tough to do a split camp. We will get four weeks after for workouts before summer.”
On the offensive side, the team has focused on improving their receiving corps and running back positions. With the addition of four new receivers and three new running backs, Strong will have more options at his disposal. This revamped offensive lineup aims to enhance scoring opportunities and overall team performance.
Defensive Adjustments and Practice Goals
Defensively, the Cowboys face challenges following the departure of ends Phillip Bradford and Masey Lewis. To address this, they have recruited eight new linemen, aiming to strengthen their defensive line. Viator emphasized the importance of assessing both new and returning players during the camp. “We’ve got to get out there and see what we haven’t, especially with the new guys,” he said. “We also get to see who is ready to take the next step from last season. We have a lot of things to figure out.”
The spring camp not only serves to integrate new talent but also provides an opportunity for Viator to establish the team’s practice culture. “We want to re-establish what we do and what we expect,” he remarked.
With practices scheduled for 3:30 p.m. over the weekend, the Cowboys are poised to embark on a transformative journey as they prepare for the upcoming season. The combination of fresh talent and returning players aims to create a competitive atmosphere that could lead to significant improvements in the team’s performance.
