Why Tampa Catholic Could Be One of the Area’s Most Improved Teams in 2026

After a difficult 2025 season, Tampa Catholic enters the fall with a new-look roster, several key additions and a belief that this year’s team is capable of taking a significant step forward. While wins won’t come easy, the talent now on the roster gives the Crusaders plenty of reasons for optimism.

It starts at quarterback.

Senior Chance Houston transferred in from Land O’ Lakes after serving as the Gators’ starting quarterback for the past two seasons. Houston flashed plenty of potential during his time there, but his senior season may provide him with the best collection of offensive weapons he’s had in his high school career.

Leading that group is Mannie McKinney, who returns after transferring from The First Academy and appears poised for a breakout season. Tampa Catholic also added Jeremy Tolliver, a transfer from Newsome who brings the ability to make an impact on both sides of the football. Tight end Dylan Richardson, another transfer from Land O’ Lakes, reunites with Houston and gives the senior quarterback a familiar target in the passing game.

Eastyn Billingsley rounds out a talented receiving corps while also expected to contribute in the secondary, giving the Crusaders another versatile playmaker. In the backfield, EJ Douglas gives Tampa Catholic another offensive weapon capable of taking pressure off the passing game.

The improvements don’t stop on offense.

Defensively, the Crusaders are led by Carl Jones Jr., a three-star defensive back committed to Wake Forest and one of the top defensive backs in the Tampa Bay area. Linebacker Chad Murray returns after leading Tampa Catholic in tackles a season ago, while Jonah Phillips provides another key piece to the defense. Jeremy Tolliver and Eastyn Billingsley add even more athleticism and versatility, giving the Crusaders far more playmakers on that side of the ball than they had a year ago.

The trenches have also received a major boost.

Former Clearwater Central Catholic offensive lineman Mason Kennedy transferred into the program, joining former East Lake standout Paul Williams to strengthen the offensive line. Their arrival should give Tampa Catholic more size, depth and experience up front while helping establish a more balanced offense.

After winning just one game a year ago, expectations from the outside remain modest.

Inside the program, however, there’s a belief this roster is capable of producing a much different season. With a veteran quarterback, an upgraded offensive line, explosive playmakers at the skill positions and a defense led by proven returners and talented newcomers, Tampa Catholic has the pieces to become one of the Tampa Bay area’s most improved teams in 2026.

Whether that translates into a playoff push or a significant jump in the win column will be decided this fall.

But don’t be surprised if the Crusaders look nothing like the team that finished 1-9 just one season ago.