CLEVELAND, Miss. – The Delta State University football team enters the 2025 season energized, focused, and prepared to tackle every challenge that lies ahead. Under the guidance of Head Coach Todd Cooley, now entering his 12th season at the helm, the Statesmen are looking to build on a proud tradition of excellence and make a strong push for the Gulf South Conference crown.
Throughout the offseason, Coach Cooley and his staff have stressed the importance of discipline, physicality, and execution, setting a high standard, as the team aims not only for a conference title but also a deep run into the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Delta State is coming off a competitive 2024 campaign in which they finished 6-4 overall and 3-3 in GSC play. Looking ahead to 2025, the Statesmen return a strong foundation of veteran leadership, bolstered by a new wave of promising talent. In total, 13 players return who appeared in 10 or more games last season—four on offense, eight on defense, and one on special teams.
Leading the offensive charge is senior quarterback Cole Kirk, who enters his sixth season at Delta State and brings poise and experience to the huddle, alongside senior wide receiver Nemo Lemay, a key playmaker in the passing game. The defensive unit will be anchored by senior linebacker William Carter and senior safety Taylon Doss, both of whom played pivotal roles in the team's defensive success last season.
When asked about expectations for his final season in the Green-and-White, Kirk is confident in the team's chemistry, leadership, and hunger for success. "We have a special group of guys that have worked extremely hard to build up to this point. This season is going to be exciting and a fun one to be part of."
While anticipation is high, the team will also have to overcome the loss of 25 players to graduation, including standout names like All-American offensive guard Jaelon Brown and kicker Nick Herber, as well as All-GSC selections Kelvin Smith, Parker Burleson, Jaylen Green, and Mario Martin. Despite those key departures, the program remains confident in its depth and the readiness of its younger talent to step up.
The 2025 season kicks off on Thursday, Aug. 28, when the Statesmen host the Mules of the University of Central Missouri at Parker Field-McCool Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m., and fans are encouraged to pack the stands in support of a team eager to make its mark this season.
For the full 2025 schedule, visit GoStatesmen.com.
