6A

Klein Collins Tigers 2026 Season Preview

by
Adam Ogburn
July 16

Klein Collins Tigers

Head Coach: Adrian Mitchell (9th season; 69-26 record)

Last Season: 11-2; 7-1 in district (Lost to Duncanville in regional semifinals)

Returning Lettermen: 22 (4 returning starters on offense; 5 on defense)

Klein Collins Key Players and Storylines

Klein Collins has been the definition of consistent under head coach Adrian Mitchell. The Tigers have made the playoffs in all eight seasons under his leadership and have made the third round of playoffs in each of the past two years.

He expects this group to be tough and resilient, a tone that will be set by their experienced defensive line. 6’3”, 285-pound defensive tackle Cayden Cunningham burst onto the scene as the district’s Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2025, while senior defensive lineman William Faye will need to take on a bigger role after serving primarily as a long snapper last year. Behind them, speedy linebacker Aden Earl (64 tackles, six TFLs) will be the playmaker to watch at the second level.

FULL SOPHOMORE SEASON HIGHLIGHT TAPE🚨‼️‼️

District Champs✅
Bi-District Champs✅
Area Champs✅

I had a great time playing with my teammates and my coaches, and I can’t wait to get to work in the off-season💪🏽 pic.twitter.com/EoE9UmtVcn

— Cayden Cunningham (@CaydenC2028) December 1, 2025

Offensively, there are more question marks surrounding the trenches. Junior Zai’Len Canto has a huge frame at 6’6” and 305 pounds, but his consistency will be what Klein Collins will value most on an inexperienced offensive line.

The Tigers also have to replace a 2,000-yard passer, but there’s some intriguing talent at the skill positions that can help ease that transition. Mitchell believes junior receiver Tylan Penright is ready to break out with his ability after the catch, while junior running back Da’Marcus Jones (348 rushing yards and four touchdowns) has a great blend of size and speed.

With several juniors playing some key roles and new starters coming up around them, Mitchell knows it will be vital for the Tigers to improve each week. If they can follow through with that commitment, he believes the talent is there for the Tigers to push for another Thanksgiving Day practice.