Spring has sprung, and with it comes the excitement of football season at Florida A&M University (FAMU). The Rattlers kicked off their 2026 spring training camp with their first scrimmage on March 7, taking place behind Bragg Memorial Stadium. Under the watchful eye of new head coach Quinn Gray Sr., the team is eager to lay down the foundation for a promising season ahead.
During this initial scrimmage, Coach Gray evaluated the team’s progress in a competitive atmosphere, focusing on how well players retained offensive and defensive strategies. The energy was palpable, with the team showcasing positive body language and clean operations, managing to keep penalties to a minimum. However, Gray did acknowledge that aggressive penalties are a part of the game, hinting at the need for players to channel their intensity appropriately as they forge their identity for the upcoming season.
Quarterback Competition Heats Up
A significant point of interest during the scrimmage was the quarterback competition. Isaiah Knowles, a former Albany State quarterback and the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year for both 2024 and 2025, seems to have a leg up thanks to his familiarity with Gray’s system. Other contenders like Armond Parker and James Hayes are also making strides, with all three quarterbacks receiving valuable reps. As the spring progresses, Gray will be keen to see who rises to the occasion in this crucial position.
The Rattlers are looking to establish a balanced offensive attack, with Co-offensive Coordinator Nick Sewak emphasizing the importance of a solid ground game alongside effective passing. Key returners like running backs Jamal Hailey and Levontai ‘Bo’ Summersett, along with wide receivers Armand Burris, Quan Lee, Corey ‘Deuce’ Petty, and Kenari Wilcher, will play pivotal roles in this strategy.
Defensive Goals and Standouts
On the defensive side of the ball, FAMU is aiming to return to the form of their “Dark Cloud Defense.” New defensive coordinator Ryan Lewis Sr. is instilling a focus on daily objectives: Effort, Attitude, and Alignment. Though the defense forced two turnovers during the scrimmage, they fell short of their goal of three. Linebackers Justice Cross and Denzel Johnson stood out for their performances, while edge rusher Caden Brown, a transfer from Syracuse, is already making waves with his ability to win one-on-one matchups.
As the team continues to build on these early practices, Coach Gray remains focused on establishing standards and accountability, making it clear that some previously accepted behaviors will no longer be tolerated. This commitment to discipline is set to become a cornerstone of the Rattlers’ identity as they head into the season.
Looking Ahead
FAMU has a full spring training camp scheduled, culminating in the Orange and Green Game on April 3, where fans will get a glimpse of the team’s development. Coach Gray, a former quarterback for the Rattlers himself, is enthusiastic about molding a new chapter for the program, especially after the departure of last year’s starting quarterback RJ Johnson III and backup Jett Peddy to the NCAA Transfer Portal.
With a challenging schedule ahead, including games against Albany State, Miami, and Jackson State, the Rattlers are gearing up for a season that promises excitement and growth. As they return to spring football camp on March 10, all eyes will be on how they continue to shape their identity under Coach Gray’s leadership. For more details on the scrimmage and the Rattlers’ progress, check out the full recap here and additional insights here.