SHERMAN, Texas — The Sherman Bearcats will begin a new chapter in 2026 as coach Efrain Ramos takes over a program looking to rebound from a 2-7 season.
Ramos returns to the Texoma area after spending two seasons at Lamesa, where he helped turn around the Golden Tornadoes program. He inherits a Sherman roster with 13 returning starters, including seven on offense and six on defense.
Sherman has several players returning
The Bearcats finished 2-6 in district play last season but return several players who produced on both sides of the ball.
Quarterback Brayden Sheffield is back after passing for 1,105 yards and eight touchdowns in 2025. Sherman will also have another option at quarterback in junior Daniel Ramos, who gained varsity starting experience during two seasons at Lamesa.
Christian Mackey gives the Bearcats an established target in the passing game after recording 23 receptions for 567 yards and seven touchdowns last season. Shalom Ayedun and two-way player Brycen Taylor provide additional options at receiver.
Taylor could also play an important role defensively after totaling 65 tackles and an interception last season.
Along the defensive front, Kentrell Nealey returns after recording 44 tackles and three sacks. Pierre Browhow, T.J. Johnson, Christian Clark, Jordan Williamson and Ethan Fullen are among the other players who could contribute to the defense.
Offensive linemen Riken Anderson and Chase Smith will be among those tasked with providing protection for a Sherman offense that has experience at the skill positions.
The Bearcats will have to adjust to new systems under Ramos, but a veteran group gives Sherman pieces to build around as it tries to return to playoff contention in 2026.