Cross Aiming For State Title Run In 2026
Cross senior RB/LB Jimmy Smith at the 2024 state title game.
By David Shelton
Senior Writer
Cross – Having firmly established themselves as one of the premier football programs on the Class A level, the 2026 Cross High Trojans are looking to take the next step.
Cross has been a true state championship contender for the last several years but they have yet to finish the job. The Trojans were 11-2 last season and are 46-10 since the 2022 season.
With some experience back this fall, head coach e’re looking forward sees championship potential in his team.
“Like everyone else on this level, we have to stay as healthy as we can,” Wright said. “With all of our key guys on the field, we can play with team in class A. We have a lot of potential if we can fill some holes.”
Wright and the Trojans entered preseason practices in August in the right frame of mind.
“The commitment level has been good,” Wright said. The attitude and work ethic of the guys has been on point. I’m pretty pleased. I think they are mentally ready to have a great season.”
Offensively, Wright will look to quarterback Tyler Harris to lead the way. This season will be his third as a starter and his experience cannot be overstated. Harris passed for 1,619 yards and 17 touchdowns last season.
“He’s very smart and he sets a great example,” the coach said. “He prepares more than any player I have coached. Nothing rattles him.”
Senior Mah’ky Green is back for his third season as well and should be among the leading rushers in Class A this season. Green topped 1,600 yards with 16 touchdowns last season. Leading the receivers are Corinthian Wilson and Bernard Middleton.
The Trojans also return four offensive linemen, led by Jailyn Broughton. Broughton is the lone returner on the defensive front. Other starters on the offensive line will include Andrew Hockett, Dakari President, Marquis Pringle and Gus Davis.
Wright says the strength defensively will be at linebacker where Kahlil Levine, Jimmy Smith, Jakobe Jones and Keyawn Wilson return. All four also will spot time at running back.
Broughton, Davis and Hockett are the starters on the three-man front. Wright, Wilson, Middleton and Jerry Sweatman form the starting secondary.
“We have experience but not a lot of depth so the same guys are having to play a lot until we develop some guys,’ Wright said.
