MCALESTER BUFFALOES
Coach: JEFF CRAIG
7-5
McAlester heads into 2026 expecting a jump under head coach Jeff Craig after several starters gained a full season of experience in a new system. Craig notes that “several starters return for the ’26 season” and that with a year under their belt, the staff is “looking for vast improvement,” even as a couple of starters are set to miss the early part of the year with injuries that will force younger players into key roles. The Buffs battled through a tough schedule in 2025 and responded well down the stretch, hoping to carry that momentum into another demanding season.
Offensively, McAlester operates from a spread gun look with option and RPO elements, emphasizing quarterback decision-making and getting the ball to athletes in space while retaining a physical run game. Junior quarterback Brody Parker (6-1, 185) returns after completing 95 of 176 passes for 1,346 yards with 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He will again have a talented receiving corps led by senior Brandon Smith (5-10, 165), who caught 30 passes for 710 yards and eight touchdowns, senior Rodney Washington (6-2, 200), who added 25 receptions for 388 yards and four scores, and senior Denver Durant (6-4, 205), who recorded 12 catches for 206 yards and two touchdowns. Junior Jaxon McKinney (6-1, 185) provides versatility at running back and quarterback after rushing for 238 yards and two scores, while senior Cade French (5-11, 170) contributed 17 receptions.
On defense, the Buffs return seven starters in a 3-4 scheme built around discipline, technique and team speed. Senior inside linebacker Trevin Simons (6-2, 210) anchors the unit after recording 153 tackles, three quarterback hurries and a forced fumble. McKinney is also a standout at free safety with 109 tackles and an interception, while Smith added three interceptions at cornerback. Senior outside linebacker Santiago Monreal (6-1, 190) posted 45 tackles and a fumble recovery, and senior nose guard Gavin Mason (6-1, 275) contributed 82 tackles in the middle.
Washington is described by the staff as a tremendous athlete with significant upside, and coaches expect a breakout senior season. Underclassman Jekolbi Boyd is another player to watch after gaining valuable varsity experience. With a veteran core, improved familiarity in the system and confidence gained from last season’s finish, McAlester believes it has the pieces to contend in a challenging district race.
8-21 – at Wagoner
8-28 – vs. Broken Bow
9-4 – at Muskogee
9-11 – vs. Ada
9-25 – at Glenpool
10-2 – vs. Coweta
10-9 – at Sapulpa
10-15 – vs. Tulsa Rogers
10-23 – at East Central
10-30 – vs. Bishop Kelley
11-6 – at Del City
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