ASHLAND – Southern Oregon University football coach Berk Brown announced his biggest recruiting haul yet on Wednesday, a 44-person National Signing Day class comprising 37 incoming freshmen and seven mid-year transfers.

Brown, entering his fourth season in 2026, bolstered a roster that is nearly 90 players deep with the transfers already on campus. Preparations are underway for the SOU Spring Game, schedule for April 24 at 6 p.m.

"I'm incredibly proud of this recruiting class and our mid-year additions," Brown said. "This group represents exactly who we are and what we believe in at Southern Oregon – effort, enthusiasm, and execution. More than anything, these young men have bought into our "WE" culture. They understand that success here is built together, through daily commitment, accountability, and a team-first mindset."

The group of incoming freshmen includes 15 Oregonians, 14 from California, seven from Washington and one from Arizona. Thirteen signed to play on the offensive line, where SOU was especially hindered by injuries and inexperience in 2025, and 11 are defensive linemen.

Said Brown: "This was truly a collective effort. I'm grateful for the relentless work of our coaching staff and the support of our university administration. Our admissions and financial aid offices were outstanding throughout the process, and our professors played a huge role by taking the time to connect with recruits and their families and showing them what makes this campus special."

Six of the seven transfers came after gaining experience in the California Community College Athletic Association. Two among that group are locals – Crater High's Caleb Canfield and Ashland High's Ronin Kimbrough – and seven are defensive backs.

"We're excited about the addition of our mid-year transfers, who bring valuable college experience, maturity, and competitive toughness to our program," Brown added. "They will raise the standard immediately and help accelerate our development."

The signees are listed alphabetically below:

JORDAN BARR | Thurston HS (Ore.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-1, 255 | Highlights
Accolades: All-state second team offense and defense … All-league first team offense and defense
Coordinator's Quote: "Jordan is an athletic center who excels in pass protection, plays with great leverage in the run game, and has the ability to pull and climb to the second level. He leads the offensive line with confidence, making all protection calls. A blue-collar, gritty competitor with a strong recommendation from his head coach, Jordan embodies the toughness and work ethic that thrive at SOU."

ZACHERY BRIDGES | Sandy HS (Ore.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 285 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team … All-state honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Zach is a prototypical offensive tackle with size, length, athleticism, and excellent footwork. He's capable of playing both left and right tackle, as well as guard, giving him tremendous upside and versatility on the Raider offensive line. Zach values culture, development, and competition."

ZACH BRUCE | California HS (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-4, 265 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league … Peter Villa Award finalist … Grizzly Award
Coordinator's Quote: "Zach is an athletic offensive tackle and former tight end who brings outstanding mobility and versatility to the Offensive Line. An excellent mover with a team-first mentality, Zach leads by example and is known for his strong work ethic."

CALEB CANFIELD | Crater HS (Ore.) / College of the Siskiyous (Calif.)
Defensive Lineman | 6-3, 265 | Highlights
Accolades: Team captain
Coordinator's Quote: "Caleb's size, strength, and long levers are going to make him a force up front. He has so much potential, can take on double teams and control the line of scrimmage, and I know he's going to thrive in our defense."

MAGNUS CARLSON | California HS (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-0, 255 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league offense … Lineman of the Year … Scholar Athlete
Coordinator's Quote: "Magnus is a dominant, fundamentally-sound offensive lineman with a physical, violent style of play. He loves the weight room, loves football, and loves to work."

MYLES DAMALLIE | Bradshaw Christian HS (Calif.)
Defensive Tackle | 6-4, 270 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Sierra Conference first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Myles has physicality to match the size and athleticism we're looking for in our defensive tackles. His best football is ahead of him and we're excited to see what he can do when he trains full-time on the DL."

ALEXANDER DAYOOB | Seton Catholic Prep HS (Ariz.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 290 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team 2024 and '25
Coordinator's Quote: "Alex is a big-bodied offensive tackle who moves well and provides impact in both the run and pass game. A competitive multi-sport athlete, Alex also excels as a standout wrestler and track & field competitor."

JADEN DEL CID-MENDEZ | Tigard HS (Ore.)
Defensive End | 6-2, 220 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Three Rivers League honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Jaden shows the ability to recognize blocking schemes, which allows him to play fast. He finishes in the pass-rush at the quarterback to help create negatives and takeaways, and he shows the versatility to play our field and boundary end positions. He's a big-time player."

ISA DELA TORRE | South Medford HS (Ore.)
Defensive Tackle | 6-0, 265 | Highlights
Accolades: All-state second team offense and defense … All-league first team offense and defense … Oregon State Heavyweight
Coordinator's Quote: "Isa is a physical, high-motor defensive lineman. The high energy and excitement he brings to the table are going to push our D-Line room to keep the juice we need up front. He can hold it down against double teams and make plays in one-on-one situations."

JACOB DIOSDADO | Gregori HS (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 330 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league second team
Coordinator's Quote: "Jacob is a long and physically-imposing offensive lineman with tremendous developmental upside. With his frame and length, he projects as a high-ceiling addition to the Raider front."

BRAXTEN DURKEE | Turlock HS (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-3, 290 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Braxten is a powerful and physical offensive guard who brings a true mauler mentality to the Raider front. Big, explosive, and athletic, Braxten thrives in the run game, pulling with force and finishing at the second level while also traveling well in pass protection. He is a competitor who embraces the process, values the brotherhood, relationships, and daily work required to succeed, making him a strong cultural fit for SOU football."

LIAM ELO | Foothill HS (Calif.) / Butte College (Calif.)
Safety | 6-2, 215 | Highlights
Accolades: All-conference first team at Foothill
Coordinator's Quote: "Liam is a dynamic defensive back who has ability to play nickel as well as safety.  With his length, his ability to cover the whole field and be a lockdown defender is special."

ELIJAH ENGLISH | Evergreen HS (Wash.)
Safety | 6-1, 175 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Elijah plays a smart brand of football.  He has the ability to see and dissect plays before they develop and great tackling ability in man-to-man coverage."

SEAN FENNELL | La Salle Catholic College Prep (Ore.)
Running Back | 6-0, 185 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Northwest Oregon Conference first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Sean is an athletic running back with strong vision and natural instincts. He consistently stays square to the line of scrimmage, splits defenders effectively, and brings good size with a frame that projects well for continued physical development. He offers significant upside and has stood out throughout the recruiting process for his strong communication skills, work ethic, and genuine love for the game – qualities that make him an excellent fit for Raider football."

JOSEPH GARCIA | Folsom HS (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-2, 275 | Highlights
Accolades: State champion and two-time section champion
Coordinator's Quote: "Joey, the 2025 SOU Big Man Camp MVP, is a polished and tough offensive guard who brings elite technique to the Raider front. He was a California state champ who plays with violence, confidence, and a competitive edge."

OLIVER GIRARD | Coquille HS (Ore.)
Defensive Tackle | 6-0, 235 | Highlights
Accolades: Five-time all-league first team … Offensive Lineman of the year … Defensive Lineman of the Year … Team MVP
Coordinator's Quote: "Oliver has a level of physicality and violent intent that belongs in the defensive line room. He possesses all of the physical attributes to become a good defensive tackle, and I believe he has a high ceiling at this position."

DEVIN HATCHER | Bradshaw Christian HS (Calif.)
Safety | 5-11, 180 | Highlights
Accolades: All-conference first team … All-Metro honorable mention … Selected to play in Heritage Bowl All-Star Game
Coordinator's Quote: "Devin is a dynamic football player who makes plays on both sides of the ball. We love his coverage ability and the quickness and speed he'll bring to this group."

CALLAHAN HEALY | Mountain House HS (Calif.)
Tight End | 6-3, 200 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league second team … All-state honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Callahan is a long, athletic receiver-tight end hybrid who brings versatility and physicality to the offense. He is a complete playmaker who attacks the ball in the air, creates yards after the catch, and plays with power at the line of scrimmage. He can line up in-line, in the slot, or in the backfield, providing the flexibility we value at the tight end position."

NOAH HELLEM | Adna HS (Wash.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-3, 315 | Highlights
Accolades: All-state offensive line … All-league first team offense and defense … All-area
Coordinator's Quote: "Noah is a physical and relentless offensive lineman who brings a true mauler mentality to the Raider front. Noah can pull, operate in space, and consistently finishes blocks with authority. He thrives in the weight room, embraces hard work, and competes with an edge. He embodies the blue-collar toughness and commitment that define SOU football."

SAMUEL HUXTABLE | South Medford HS (Ore.)
Safety | 6-0, 170 | Highlights
Accolades: All-conference first team … All-state honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Samuel is a complete safety. He defends at all levels and can man up anyone from the No. 1 receiver to the tight end, but what really sets him apart is the ability to track and tackle with elite strike."

E'CARRI JONES | Armijo HS (Calif.)
Defensive Tackle | 6-1, 230 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league
Coordinator's Quote: "E'Carri has a good twitchiness in his agility. His time playing at defensive end will make him a better DT. He has a great amount of potential to develop into an interior threat."

McKAY KENITZER | Amador Valley HS (Calif.)
Tight End | 6-4, 215 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league offense
Coordinator's Quote: "McKay is a true in-line tight end who dominates at the point of attack. He runs well, displays strong ball skills, and creates consistent matchup problems in the passing game – especially in the red zone. He comes with a raving recommendation from his high school coaches and was developed in a program that does things the right way. McKay is a high-character worker who values relationships, fit, and winning."

RONIN KIMBROUGH | Ashland HS (Ore.) / New Mexico Highlands University
Safety | 5-11, 190 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Conference first team and two-time NorCal Grizzly Bowl champion at College of the Redwoods (Calif.)
Coordinator's Quote: "Ronin is a smart, savvy football player. He does a great job analyzing the game, which allows him to be great on the field. He is a great player and a local guy, and we're excited he's home."

JACKSON KNITTLE | Adna HS (Wash.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 275 | Highlights
Accolades: All-state offensive line … All-league and all-area offense and defense
Coordinator's Quote: "Jackson is a versatile offensive lineman who can play guard or tackle. A starter on his high school basketball team, Jackson combines size, athleticism, and violent play in the trenches with excellent feet, body control, and significant upside. A loyal, blue-collar competitor, Jackson is the ultimate team player. His work ethic, toughness, and dedication make him a perfect fit for Raider football."

KELLEN LEFEBRVE | South Medford HS (Ore.)
Running Back | 6-0, 180 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league second team … All-state honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Kellen is a patient and visionary running back with extensive game experience. Though smaller in stature, he carried a heavy workload in his senior season and demonstrates excellent field awareness and decision-making. He's a true team-first leader who consistently puts his teammates above himself on and off the field. We're fired up to add another Rogue Valley native to the program."

NATE LYNCH | Capital Christian HS (Calif.) / American River College (Calif.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-6, 295 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Capital Athletic League at Capital Christian
Coordinator's Quote: "Nate was a key contributor for American River's Gridiron Bowl championship team. His length and athleticism at the tackle position make him a valuable addition to our offensive line room. He brings contagious energy and enthusiasm every day, and he is a perfect fit for our culture."

KEEGAN McAFEE | Hockinson HS (Wash.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 245 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Greater St. Helens League first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Keegan is a big-bodied offensive tackle who moves well and is effective in both the run and pass game. He brings athleticism and versatility to the Raider front as a multi-sport athlete. Keegan communicates well and values relationships, making him a strong fit for the culture of SOU football."

JUDE MENDOZA | Bishop Monogue HS (Nev.) / Butte College (Calif.)
Safety | 6-0, 210 | Highlights
Accolades: Team captain at Butte … Two-time Player of the Game
Coordinator's Quote: "Jude's highlight tape popped right away as a player that will fit our system. He can play the high hole and come down into the box. He made a name for himself as a starter at Butte and we're excited for him to repeat that as a Raider."

MATTHEW NEWELL | Thurston HS (Ore.)
Wide Receiver | 6-1, 190 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team … All-state second team
Coordinator's Quote: "Matt is a wide receiver known for his elite work ethic and relentless drive. After a standout junior season, he was projected by his high school head coach to be Offensive Player of the Year. With the skill set, attitude, and commitment to excellence, Matt is poised to make an immediate impact at SOU and fit seamlessly into the Raider culture, attacking every day with effort, enthusiasm, and execution."

IAN NIX | Adrienne C. Nelson HS (Ore.)
Defensive End | 6-2, 210 | Highlights
Accolades: All-state first team … Mt. Hood Conference Defensive Player of the Year
Coordinator's Quote: "Ian can become a weapon on the D-block sooner than later due to his ability to get off the ball. He has an electric style of play that strikes fear into opposing offensive linemen and quarterbacks, and he'll become a top ball-disruptor in the Frontier for years to come."

RAY PALMER | White River HS (Wash.)
Safety | 6-0, 190 | Highlights
Accolades: North Puget Sound League Player of the Year … All-area first team
Coordinator's Quote: "Ray is a dynamic playmaker in all phases of the game. He will beat you with speed, defend numbers-to-numbers and strike you if you have the ball. He is intentional on and off the field as someone who handles business."

JACOB PARIS | East Union HS (Calif.)
Wide Receiver | 6-3, 170 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league honorable mention
Coordinator's Quote: "Jacob is a big-bodied wide receiver who brings a physical presence on the outside. He attacks the ball in the air and consistently threatens defenses vertically. He's a mature, coachable, hard-working competitor."

TIMOTHY PETRIYENKO | Centennial HS (Ore.)
Safety | 6-2, 185 | Highlights
Accolades: All-conference second team receiver … All-conference honorable mention safety
Coordinator's Quote: "Tim is an intriguing player with the ability to make plays from numbers-to-numbers. He has uncommon athleticism and we're excited about his future."

EVERETT RATLIFF | Woodinville HS (Wash.) / Pacific University (Ore.)
Cornerback | 5-10, 180 | Highlights
Accolades: All-KingCo League honorable mention offense and defense
Coordinator's Quote: "Everett is a tough, hard-nosed corner. He is the kind of worker that makes others around him better, and he has quickness and great change of direction. We're excited for him to be a Raider."

TYSON RUGGIERO | Camas HS (Wash.)
Quarterback | 6-4, 200 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team … All-state second team
Coordinator's Quote: "Tyson is a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to impact the game with both his arm and legs. He brings an intriguing blend of size and athleticism with significant upside as he develops in the program. Coming from Camas High School's winning culture, his mindset and competitiveness align closely with the identity of SOU football."

LUKE SAYSETTE | San Marin HS (Calif.)
Linebacker | 6-1, 210 | Highlights
Accolades: Team captain
Coordinator's Quote: "Luke shows versatility with his ability to pass-rush and track and tackle in the open field. He does a good job of block-destruction and is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker who arrives at the ball with bad intentions."

AMARIANO SIKES | Jesse Bethel HS (Calif.)
Cornerback | 6-1, 185 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team defensive back
Coordinator's Quote: "Amariano is a long, athletic corner with the ability to consistently defend the deep ball and make reliable open-field tackles. His speed allows him to cover ground quickly, and once the ball is in his hands, he has the playmaking ability to turn opportunities into big gains."

COLSON SKUSE | Summit HS (Ore.)
Defensive End | 6-4, 220 | Highlights
Accolades: Team captain
Coordinator's Quote: "Colson is a long, rangy edge-rusher who can get after the quarterback and has the ability to set the edge against the run. He gets off of blocks well and plays hard."

HENRY VOLPONE | Eastlake HS (Wash.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-2, 255 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league … Selected to play in Cleats vs. Cancer All-Star Game
Coordinator's Quote: "Henry is an athletic, long-levered interior offensive lineman with a 6-7 wingspan and significant upside. He has a bright future in front of him, loves Ashland, and is intentional about becoming a leader. Henry values relationships and is a strong fit for the culture of SOU football."

OWEN WALKER | Caldera HS (Ore.)
Defensive End | 6-4, 235 | Highlights
Accolades: All-conference first team offense … All-conference second team defense
Coordinator's Quote: "Owen is a big, physical end and will walk in as a dominant force up front. His ability to control the line of scrimmage and play with violence will boost our culture on the D-block."

CARLTON WHITTED | Franklin HS (Calif.)
Cornerback | 6-1, 175 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Delta League second team
Coordinator's Quote: "Carlton is a strong, physical and athletic corner with the versatility to line up anywhere in the secondary. He brings excellent size to this position and plays with confidence and patience in coverage. With his skill set and approach to the game, he is poised to become a key contributor and a standout corner for us in the near future."

ASHER WILEY | Warrenton HS (Ore.)
Offensive Lineman | 6-5, 260 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league honorable mention offense and defense
Coordinator's Quote: "Asher is a long, multi-sport athlete with significant upside and room to grow within the Raider football program. He brings athleticism, coachability, and a strong desire to learn and improve as both a player and a young man."

DEVIN WILLIAMS | Union Mine HS (Calif.) / American River College (Calif.)
Cornerback | 6-1, 185 | Highlights
Accolades: All-Pacific League second team
Coordinator's Quote: "Devin has good athletic ability, experience, and competitive toughness, and we expect him to contribute early in the secondary. He has a solid understanding of coverage concepts and plays with consistent effort, allowing him to adjust quickly to the system. He adds depth and competition to the room and should be able to provide reliable snaps as he develops."

SPENCER YORK | Beaverton HS (Ore.)
Quarterback | 5-11, 180 | Highlights
Accolades: All-league first team … All-state honorable mention … Led state in touchdown passes
Coordinator's Quote: "Spencer is a gritty, hyper-athletic competitor who brings toughness, versatility, and a team-first mindset. He produces at a high level, operates on time as a passer, extends plays with his legs, and shows strong upside for continued development. Spencer is a multi-sport athlete and his character and selfless approach make him a natural fit for our culture.