McKinney Lions
Head Coach: Nate Leonard (3rd season; 9-12 record)
Last Season: 3-7; 2-6 in district
Returning Lettermen: 25 (8 returning starters on offense; 8 on defense)
McKinney Key Players and Storylines
McKinney earned its stripes a year ago. The Lions started several sophomores in 2025 and ended up missing the playoffs for the first time in four years.
Those now juniors have game experience, and they are ready for this fall. It all starts with junior quarterback Kip Killough (435 passing yards, 438 rushing yards), who has grown into a leader and knows the offense like the back of his hand. He’ll have a big target in 6’4”, 180-pound tight end Jayden Washington and a speed option in senior slot receiver Griffin Shelley. Shelley is also an option on the ground after rushing for 407 yards on 68 carries last season.
Up front, 6’3”, 330-pound junior tackle Sean Sherman is the name to know. He has a future on Saturdays with double-digit Division I offers already.
McKinney (TX) 2028 OL Sean Sherman @SeanBigSherm | @McKinneyFBall | @TA_Recruiting pic.twitter.com/cxsHFAkkrp
— Jason Howell (@Jason_Howell) March 1, 2026
Even with Sherman, the Lions do have some gaps to fill on the offensive line and defensive lines, which means Ryder Soderman’s (24 tackles, seven TFLs) presence at defensive tackle will be vital. He is a four-year letterman who will play a big role in the Lions’ defense. Behind him, middle linebacker Cason White (104 tackles) is the quarterback of the defense, while outside linebacker Chijoke Ukaji (46 tackles, 18.5 TFLs) is a pass rush threat off the edge.
Head coach Nate Leonard pointed to McKinney’s three one possession losses as proof that his Lions weren’t far off a year ago. With 16 returning starters, expectations are high as the Lions eye a swift return to the playoffs.
2026 Schedule
*Denotes District 6-6A contest
Friday 8/28 @ McKinney North at MISD Stadium
Friday 9/4 vs. Forney at MISD Stadium
Friday 9/11 @ Little Elm at Lobo Stadium
*Friday 9/18 @ Walnut Grove at Children’s Health Stadium
*Thursday 9/24 vs. Prosper at MISD Stadium
*Friday 10/9 @ Allen at Eagle Stadium
*Friday 10/16 @ Princeton at Jackie Hendricks Stadium
*Friday 10/23 vs. Rock Hill at MISD Stadium
*Friday 10/30 @ Dallas Jesuit at Ranger Stadium
*Thursday 11/5 vs. McKinney Boyd @ MISD Stadium
