GALLERY – Jackson Public Schools officially kicked off its 2026 high school football season with a press conference featuring coaches and players from across the district

On Aug. 14th, Jackson Public Schools officially kicked off its 2026 high school football season with a press conference featuring coaches and players from across the district. JPS enters the new season following a strong 2025 campaign, with Lanier and Callaway High Schools advancing to the MHSAA playoffs and more than 20 JPS football student athletes signing athletic scholarships. Among the returning players to watch is Geraci Carson, an 11th grade defensive tackle at Lanier High School. Carson is a five star recruit ranked by ESPN as the nation’s No. 1 defensive tackle, No. 1 player in Mississippi and No. 2 overall prospect in the country. Lanier also returns Knolyn Bailey, who recorded 1,754 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns last season while earning several honors, including Rookie of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year. The 2026 JPS head football coaches are: Callaway — Quintius Edwards, Forest Hill — Tony Fell, Jim Hill — Chaz Kennedy, Lanier — Tommy Kelly, Murrah — Marcus Gibson and Provine — Willie Williams. The season also features a unique mentor mentee connection at Lanier, where former NFL defensive tackle Tommy Kelly is entering his second season coaching Carson, who plays the same position. With returning All District selections and several programs coming off playoff appearances, JPS football is entering the 2026 season with plenty of talent and momentum. (Advocate Photos: Joshua Martin)