Jeff Moeller, sports correspondent
After their spring campaign ended, Richmond Hill head football coach Matt LeZotte was optimistic about the Wildcats’ upcoming 2026 campaign.
Richmond Hill is looking to rebound off a 6-5 season last year in which they dropped their final regular-season games before they suffered a season-ending 45-0 defeat to Buford County in the state playoffs.
“Momentum is building for Wildcat Football following an impressive spring campaign that concluded with a highly attended and energetic intersquad game on May 19,” said LeZotte, who will begin his 10th season at the helm. “The Wildcats enter the 2026 season with a strong mix of veteran leadership, emerging playmakers, and growing confidence across the roster.”
LeZotte will look to returning quarterback Gunner Mobley to lead a unit that made significant progress throughout the spring. Mobley completed 122 of 215 attempts for 1,454 yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
Mobley’s prime targets will be Eli Grant, CJ Menzie, DJ Porter, and Nick Cameron. Grant caught 45 passes for 596 yards with five touchdowns.
LeZotte anticipates his veteran offensive line of Cole Roy, Amir Wright, Hank Morgan, Asaad Doby, and Tyler Jenkins can help generate more offense.
“Our offensive line has developed strong chemistry,” added LeZotte. “We expect them to help fuel a more consistent and physical rushing attack.”
On the other side of the ball, LeZotte also likes his team’s chances.
“We have a veteran group defensively,” stressed LeZotte. “They set the tone all spring.”
LeZotte sees Tre Brown, Jaleal Barnard, Layton Steigleman and Jaylon Deal setting the tone.
“Brown and Barnard will lead a physical, defensive front,” said LeZotte. “Steigelman and Deal bring toughness and leadership to the middle of the defense.”
In the secondary, DJ Porter, Gage Witham, Eli Grant, and Jeremiah Jones will form the core.
“They are impact players,” noted LeZotte of his four players in the secondary. “They give us speed, playmaking ability, and experience on the back end.”
Even though the start of official practice is nearly two months away, LeZotte believes their spring workouts will pay dividends down the road. The Wildcats will open the season at home against Effingham County Aug. 21.
The Wildcats will then have consecutive home games against Liberty County (Aug. 28) and Jenkins (Sept. 4) before their first away game is at Ware County Sept. 11.
“With key contributors returning on both sides of the ball and a successful spring laying the foundation, the Wildcats are poised to carry significant momentum into the 2026 season,” said LeZotte. “Expectations are high as the program continues its preparation for what promises to be an exciting fall.”