“ Overall we feel like this is a pretty mature team. We have communicated with our kids what we think were strong at and what we need to improve. Setting high goals is great but to achieve those goals, you’ re attitude and work ethic need to match those goals. They need to understand the importance of what they’ re doing and the welding of the team.”
This time was particularly helpful for the defensive side of the ball as Erik Chavez is taking up the mantle of defensive backs coach while Cliff Prier is coming in as the new safeties coach.
As for the roster as a whole, Crane said that he thinks the strength of the team will be“ offensive experience.”
Headlining that unit is quarterback Colton Ponton. Crane said Ponton came over to the team last season as a junior and was still getting used to the offense. Despite gaining experience throughout the year, Ponton lit up the stat sheet with 2,099 yards passing, 25 touchdowns and just three interceptions while finishing the season with a 128.6 passer rating.
Ponton also rushed for 559 yards and five touchdowns proving his ability as a dual threat in 2025.
Ponton will be protected this coming season up front by returning offensive linemen such as LBJ Weatherford and Luke Westmoreland.
The rising senior quarterback will also have some weapons to round out the air attack coming into this season with Steven Stiggers being a reliable target. Stiggers caught 42 passes last year for 750 yards and 10 touchdowns. Alongside Stiggers are players like Braeden Vann, who will be his running mate on the offensive side of the ball as a hybrid running back and
“ Overall we feel like this is a pretty mature team. We have communicated with our kids what we think were strong at and what we need to improve. Setting high goals is great but to achieve those goals, you’ re attitude and work ethic need to match those goals. They need to understand the importance of what they’ re doing and the welding of the team.”
— Kodi Crane
receiver but also a defensive standout for the team.
Vann plays in the secondary at the free safety position and finished last season with 79 total tackles and
CADDO MILLS FOXES
20 END ZONE | 2026