CATOOSA INDIANS
Coach: SAL GUERRERO
0-10
Catoosa looks to turn the corner in 2026 after an 0-10 campaign, leaning on a battle-tested core that grew through adversity under fifth-year head coach Sal Guerrero. The staff describes this as “a young football team that gained valuable, meaningful reps last season, and those experiences are already paying off,” noting that many players now “understand the system” at a deeper level. With that strong returning nucleus and “an exciting group of talented young athletes ready to step in,” coaches say “the future is bright.” They also point to a new classification that brings “fresh challenges and opportunities” and has created “a real sense of energy and anticipation” as they “see how this team competes, develops, and represents our program this season.”
Offensively, eight starters return in a multiple set built around the run game and a physical, experienced core. The staff calls it a “multiple offense look with an emphasis on run game,” and senior Devin Johnson (6-0, 190) is the focal point after producing 828 yards and three touchdowns as a dual-threat QB/RB. Junior receiver Brysen Jimenez (6-1, 175) gives Catoosa a proven downfield weapon after posting 500 receiving yards and five touchdowns last season, and he is also recognized by coaches as the program’s Character Counts athlete, an “ultimate teammate” and “all round amazing athlete with a great attitude.” The offensive line is anchored by a trio of sophomores in Jason Watkins (6-2, 230), Jose Ramirez (6-3, 300) and Julian Rodriguez (6-2, 240), giving the offense size and continuity up front. Senior JR Brown (6-3, 220) adds versatility at HB/RB/TE, allowing the staff to create different looks and personnel groupings without changing core concepts. Johnson is the program’s VYPE Top 100 nominee and “heart of the team,” a player who “plays almost 100% of the snaps on both sides of the ball” and has piled up over 2,000 all-purpose yards and more than 230 tackles in three seasons.
Defensively, Catoosa brings back seven starters in a multiple-look scheme designed to adjust to opponents while leaning on a core of proven producers. Johnson headlines the group at safety, where he totaled 101 tackles and one interception a year ago and sets the tone with his work ethic and toughness. Up front, Watkins slides to defensive line and posted 25 tackles and four sacks, while Brown returns at inside linebacker after notching 50 tackles and an interception. The secondary features seniors Ryder Phillips (6-0, 175), who made 17 tackles and broke up 10 passes at corner, and Brandon Hampton (5-11, 150), along with sophomore edge defender Coby Bryum (6-2, 210) at defensive end/outside linebacker. The staff also highlights incoming freshman Kaysin Morgan as an underclassman to watch, calling him a physical RB/LB who they expect “to come in and make a huge impact,” and they praise Timmy White as a hard worker who balances football and leadership as an FFA officer. With that blend of experience, emerging youth and a centerpiece in Johnson, Catoosa believes it can take tangible steps forward in the win column this fall.
9-4 – at Mannford
9-11 – at Verdigris
9-18 – vs. Inola
9-25 – at Berryhill
10-2 – vs. Jones
10-9 – at Jay
10-15 – vs. Metro Christian
10-23 – vs. Vinita
10-30 – at Eufaula
11-6 – vs. Webster
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