2026 FAMU Football Signing Day Central

A new era has begun for Florida A&M University (FAMU) football. On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, first-year head coach Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. Finalized his inaugural recruiting class, signaling the start of a rebuilding process for the Rattlers.

Building a Foundation

Coach Gray, a FAMU Hall of Fame quarterback, is now leading the program as its 20th head coach. His first signing class focuses on bringing in a blend of size, speed, and experience to the roster. The class includes players from various backgrounds, including transfers and highly-rated high school prospects.

Did You Know? Jaylan Lurry, a wide receiver from Florida High, is the first player from his school in 30 years to surpass 1,000 receiving yards.

Key Additions to the Rattlers

Among the new signees are Caden Brown, a 6-4, 225-pound linebacker from Syracuse, described as a consensus three-star prospect. Jaden Desir, a 205-pound running back from Saint Thomas Aquinas HS, brings a championship-level prep background. Jason Duclona, a defensive back from East Tennessee State, has college experience and versatility, having played both wide receiver and defensive back previously.

The Rattlers also added James Hayes, a 6-3, 230-pound quarterback with HBCU experience from Alabama State, and Chase Gillespie, a running back with SEC experience from Vanderbilt. Xavier Herndon, a 6-3, 245-pound tight end from Albany State, is a proven college pass-catcher. Terrell James, a 6-3, 214-pound defensive end from Murray State, brings a decorated prep background.

Further bolstering the defense are Wynton Jones Jr., a playmaking defensive back from Miami Palmetto HS, and Omari Kinsler, a 6-4, 205-pound linebacker from Chowan, who was named Freshman of the Year. On the offensive line, Corbett Yarbrough, a 6-4, 280-pound lineman from Flemming HS, adds size and depth.

Rounding out the class are wide receivers Mike Peterson Jr. (Florida) and Corey Petty (Albany State), linebackers Jaiden Roper (Chaminade-Madonna HS), defensive lineman Isaiah Morrison (Albany State), defensive tackle Roderick McFadden (Miami Northwestern HS), tight end Tamez Young (Florida Atlantic), and wide receiver Joseph Young (Florida Atlantic). Tian Wynche, a wide receiver from Mandarin HS, also joins the team as a multi-sport athlete.

Expert Insight: The influx of players with both college and high school experience suggests a strategy to address immediate needs while simultaneously building for the future. The diverse backgrounds of these recruits—from Power Four programs to HBCUs and highly-regarded prep schools—could contribute to a dynamic team culture.

What’s Next for FAMU Football?

With the signing class now official, the focus will shift to player development and preparation for the 2026 season. It is likely that Coach Gray and his staff will prioritize integrating these new players into the team’s system. The success of this recruiting class could potentially lay the groundwork for future success and a return to prominence for FAMU football. A competitive schedule awaits the Rattlers in 2026, and the performance of these new recruits will be a key factor in determining the team’s trajectory.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was National Signing Day 2026?

National Signing Day was Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Who is the head coach of FAMU football?

Quinn Fordham Gray Sr. Is the head football coach of Florida A&M University.

How many players signed with FAMU on February 4, 2026?

FAMU announced the signing of 23 players on February 4, 2026.

How will Coach Gray’s experience as a FAMU quarterback influence his leadership of the team?