Florida A&M Ushers in New Era with Dynamic 2026 Recruiting Class
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Florida A&M University officially launched a new chapter in its football program on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as first-year head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. unveiled a recruiting class designed to build a foundation of size, speed, and experience. The Rattlers, under the leadership of the Hall of Fame quarterback-turned-20th head coach, are poised to compete with a roster bolstered by a diverse group of talented newcomers.
A Class Built on Versatility and Potential
The incoming class reflects Coach Gray’s vision for a program that blends established college players with high-potential prospects. Several signees bring valuable experience from the collegiate level, while others arrive as highly-touted recruits ready to make an immediate impact.
Among the key additions is Caden Brown, a 6-4, 225-pound linebacker from Syracuse. Brown arrives with a high-level recruiting profile, having been a consensus three-star prospect and ranked as high as the No. 4 EDGE prospect in New York. He is expected to add length and pass-rush ability to the Rattlers’ second level.
On the offensive side, Jaden Desir, a 6-0, 205-pound running back from Saint Thomas Aquinas HS, brings a physical presence and championship pedigree to the backfield. Chase Gillespie, a 5-10, 200-pound running back transferring from Vanderbilt, adds SEC experience and all-purpose potential, having been ranked as the No. 17 all-purpose back nationally by Rivals.
Transfer Experience Bolsters Key Positions
Coach Gray and his staff strategically targeted experienced players to address immediate needs. Jason Duclone, a 6-1, 185-pound defensive back from East Tennessee State, is a versatile player with 300-plus snaps under his belt from 2025, including 24 tackles, three tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and an interception. Duclone’s ability to contribute on both sides of the ball makes him a valuable asset.
At quarterback, James Hayes (6-3, 230 lbs) provides depth with experience in an HBCU program, having appeared in a game for Alabama State. The Rattlers also added Xavier Herndon (6-3, 245 lbs), a tight end from Albany State, who was a first-team all-conference selection in the SIAC with 31 catches for 485 yards and seven touchdowns.
Local Talent and Rising Stars Join the Ranks
Florida A&M also focused on securing local talent, including wide receiver Jaylan Lurry (6-0, 185 lbs) from Florida High. Lurry made history as the first Florida High wide receiver in 30 years to surpass 1,000 receiving yards, earning him recognition as the Tallahassee QB Club WR of the Year.
Defensive standouts include Wynton Jones Jr. (5-11, 165 lbs), a playmaking defensive back from Miami Palmetto HS, who was named All-Dade in 2025 and earned MVP honors at the Portal Mega Camp. Roderick McFadden (6-0, 310 lbs), a defensive tackle from Miami Northwestern HS, adds immediate size and strength to the interior defensive line, having recorded 61 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and 7.5 sacks in his senior season. Jaiden Roper (6-1, 207 lbs), a linebacker from Chaminade-Madonna HS, is a consistent producer who earned First Team All-Dade and 1A–3A Defensive Player of the Year recognition.
Completing the Class: A Look at Additional Signees
The Rattlers rounded out their class with a number of promising additions. Omari Kinsler (6-4, 205 lbs), a linebacker from Chowan, was named Freshman of the Year. Terrell James (6-3, 214 lbs), a defensive end from Murray State, was a High School Defensive Player of the Year. Isaiah Morrison (6-1, 265 lbs), a defensive lineman from Albany State, brings leadership and academic excellence. Mike Peterson Jr. (6-0, 164 lbs), a wide receiver from Florida, adds quickness to the perimeter. Corey Petty (5-11, 190 lbs), a wide receiver from Albany State, brings a decorated prep background. Corbett Yarbrough (6-4, 280 lbs), an offensive lineman from Fleming HS, provides size and depth. Joseph Young (6-1, 195 lbs) and Tamez Young (6-4, 218 lbs), both wide receiver and tight end respectively from Florida Atlantic, bring championship experience. Finally, Tian Wynche (6-2, 180 lbs), a wide receiver from Mandarin HS, is a multi-sport athlete with leadership qualities.
This comprehensive recruiting class signals a clear intent from Coach Gray to rapidly elevate the Florida A&M football program. The blend of experienced transfers and high-potential recruits positions the Rattlers for success as they embark on this exciting new era.
