mix of returners and JV players, saying that most of them are his best friends and they’ ve done well to build chemistry.

Another sign of excitement from the Roos is district realignment. A new look at 3-6A Div. I brings up Aledo and moves in many Arlington ISD schools including defending district champions Bowie.

“ It’ s a great opportunity for a turnaround, especially coming off three wins the past two years,” said Martinez.

Of course, the matchup they’ re excited for the most is against the team right down the street.

Williams called this district winnable and will be extremely disappointed if the Roos don’ t make the playoffs this year.

Being an approachable coach and a hugger, despite Martinez’ s disdain, has brought a camaraderie to the program that will not only benefit the Roos over the next eight months, but over the next eight years with Williams.

OFFENSE

Many factors led to Williams’ desire to join Weatherford, while the offensive potential was icing on the cake, he said. A total of 1,400 yards for Quimby and 1,000 receiving yards for Hemphill headlined a Roo offense that could score 40 points a game last year. It’ s not about whether or not the pair can replicate their success, but rather the accompaniment to their production.

“ I’ m very optimistic about what can be joined into Jakob and DJ,” said Williams. More disparity of the football is what the offense seeks now with Jones at quarterback.“ A lot has been put on Braelyn,” the Roos head coach added. Admitting he was cocky in his sophomore year, Jones enters his junior campaign needing to know every part of a simplified offense that will look different.

Relying on his quick learning skills, Jones continues his development and is on track to be prepared for week one.

As for the two-headed skill position monster of Quimby and Hemphill, expect a significant improvement as an all-around player for both seniors.

With the help of his new coaches, Quimby learned that being a great running back isn’ t just about running the ball. Utilization in the passing game and honing in on his blocking technique are keys to Quimby’ s impact out of the backfield. For Hemphill, its been over a year since he transferred to Weatherford from Arlington Heights. When he first arrived, Hemphill struggled to get familiar with his teammates as many were playing different sports. Now, after a full season, he feels like he’ s known the guys for years.

Quimby recalled Hemphill coming in with a confident attitude. The two sarcastically joked about barely liking each other at first, but in reality, the compliments they gave each other during the interview felt more like brothers.

“ Jakob’ s our most vocal leader,” Quimby said.

In his short time with the program, Williams called Hemphill“ the biggest servant on this football team” for his leadership skills during workouts and youth camps. If anybody were to be a successful coach later in life, it would be Hemphill, according to Williams.

Moreover, Hemphill believes he still has a lot to learn under a new coaching staff, which makes the star receiver much more dangerous this season.

DEFENSE

As much as Williams loves to score points, the Roos need to play complementary football. Weatherford allowed nearly 50 points a game in 2025 despite the offense scoring over 30 points in half of its games.

“ It raises the pressure on us with the successful offense,” Martinez said.“ It’ ll even out this year.”

Enjoying his time with a younger coaching staff that brings a fresh perspective. Martinez returns as the leading tackler from 2025 to a group that will play sound and run to the football with purpose, Williams said. Quimby and Hemphill praised the younger group for their effort so far, stating“ they want it more” this year.

The Roos defense may not be the fastest or strongest, but to Williams, it’ s not about what you do, it’ s about how you do it.

The Roos will be just fine with 21-14 wins because, as Williams said,“ winning is winning.”

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