DENISON, Texas — The Denison Yellow Jackets will enter the 2026 football season with a new head coach, an experienced roster and several young players positioned to take on larger roles in District 4-5A Division II.
Brian Lilly takes over the program and returns to his hometown after serving as a head coach in Tennessee. Denison finished 4-5 overall and 3-5 in district play in 2025.
The Yellow Jackets return 15 starters — six on offense and nine on defense — giving Lilly an experienced foundation as he begins his tenure.
One of the key offensive players to watch is Gavin Mandrell, who returns to tight end after spending time at quarterback last season. Mandrell accounted for 502 passing yards and two touchdowns, 264 rushing yards and four scores, and 109 receiving yards with a touchdown in 2025.
Quarterback Paxton Neashitt could also figure prominently in the offense after helping lead Denison’s freshman team to a 10-0 record.
The backfield features junior Rashaund Dehorney, who rushed for 777 yards and 17 touchdowns last season and earned district newcomer of the year honors.
Defensively, Denison returns playmakers in the secondary. Shandan Love recorded five interceptions in 2025 and earned first-team all-district recognition. Alyc Moore also had five interceptions and gives the Yellow Jackets another experienced option in the defensive backfield.
Ace Hernandez is another player to watch
Defensive lineman Ace Hernandez is another player to watch up front, while junior defensive lineman Tre’Kell Green could provide additional size along the line.
Denison also has several players who could take on expanded roles, including wide receivers Brandon Douglas, Jashaud Sims and Christian Ramos; offensive linemen Ayden Hunt, Noah Fletcher and Monte Nicholson; defensive backs Tayden Luper, Bryce McQueen and Jason Carney; and Mekhi Diaz-Stewart.
With a veteran defense, returning offensive production and a promising group of younger players, Denison will look to improve on last season while adjusting to Lilly’s leadership.
The Yellow Jackets will compete in Texas Class 5A Division II’s District 4 during the 2026 season.