QUINCY, Ill. – Head coach Jason Killday and the rest of the Quincy University football staff are proud to welcome the program's Signing Class of 2026 in preparation for the upcoming season.

Joseph Akalaonu | Tight End | Crystal Lake, IL | Carmel Catholic High School
Carmel Catholic High School tight end Joseph Akalaonu joins Quincy from Crystal Lake, Illinois, after helping lead Carmel Catholic to two ESCC Purple Conference Championships during his prep career. Akalaonu brings size, strength, and reliability to the Hawks' offense as a versatile tight end option. He chose Quincy because it immediately felt like home and is excited to be part of the program while continuing his development at the next level.

Sawyer Allen | Quarterback | Mendon, IL | Unity High School
Unity High School quarterback Sawyer Allen joins Quincy from Mendon, Illinois, following a standout prep career as a proven leader under center. Allen earned 2A All-Conference honors as both a sophomore and junior before collecting 2A All-State recognition his senior season. He also excelled academically, earning High Honor Roll recognition all four years and being named an Illinois State Scholar. Allen chose Quincy for the culture created by the coaching staff and the academic offerings that align with his future goals, bringing leadership, discipline, and a strong commitment to excellence to the Hawks.

Mason Bacus | Quarterback | Jacksonville, FL | Middleburg High School
Middleburg High School quarterback Mason Bacus joins Quincy from Jacksonville, Florida, after leading Middleburg to the best record in program history and a fourth consecutive playoff appearance. A steady presence under center, Bacus guided the offense with consistency and poise throughout his prep career. He also earned recognition as a member of the National Technical Honor Society. Bacus adds leadership, experience, and a strong work ethic to the Hawks' quarterback room.

Jackson Barnes | Defensive Lineman | Morton, IL | Morton High School
Morton High School defensive lineman Jackson Barnes joins the Hawks from Morton, Illinois. Barnes developed into a strong presence along the defensive front during his prep career, bringing physicality and determination to the line of scrimmage. He also excelled in the classroom, earning Honor Roll recognition. Barnes adds toughness and a strong work ethic as he begins his collegiate career at Quincy.

Jack Beetham | Quarterback | Yorkville, IL | Yorkville High School
Yorkville High School quarterback Jack Beetham comes to Quincy from Yorkville, Illinois, after earning Class 7A All-State Honorable Mention honors during his prep career. Known for his competitive drive and steady play, Beetham was a key contributor for Yorkville. He chose Quincy because it felt like home and was drawn to the positive energy and support from the coaching staff as he joins the Hawks program.

Connor Broughton | Defensive Lineman | Springfield, IL | Rochester High School
Rochester High School standout Connor Broughton brings toughness and versatility to Quincy as a defensive lineman. A First Team All-State selection, Broughton helped lead Rochester to a Class 4A State Championship in 2023 and a state runner-up finish in 2025, while also earning All-Conference honors during his career. A three-sport athlete, he qualified for the state track meet in the 4x400 relay in 2024 and holds his school's wrestling record for the fastest pin. A team captain in football, wrestling, and track, Broughton also earned Academic All-Conference recognition in all three sports.

Corey Brown Jr. | Defensive Lineman | Milwaukee, WI | Milwaukee Lutheran High School
Milwaukee Lutheran High School defensive lineman Corey Brown Jr. comes to Quincy from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he starred at both defensive end and defensive tackle. Brown set the school's sack record while earning All-Conference honors and being named his team's overall MVP. He also earned Honor Roll recognition three times during his high school career. Brown brings strength, production, and a hard-nosed mentality to the Hawks' defensive line.

Lucas Deines | Wide Receiver | Mount Prospect, IL | Prospect High School
Prospect High School wide receiver Lucas Deines comes to Quincy from Mount Prospect, Illinois, after a strong three-year varsity career. A consistent contributor and leader, Deines served as a team captain, earned All-Conference honors, and helped guide his team to an MSL East Conference Championship. He also showcased his athleticism as a track state qualifier. Deines chose Quincy because of the connection he felt with the coaching staff and the family atmosphere, saying it felt like home.

Sam Duke | Defensive Lineman | Tipton, MO | Tipton High School
Tipton High School standout Sam Duke joins Quincy from Tipton, Missouri, after one of the most decorated prep careers in the state. Duke helped lead Tipton to a Missouri Class 1 State Championship and a Central State 8 Conference title, earning Missouri Class 1 Defensive Player of the Year honors. He was a two-time CS8 Defensive Player of the Year, two-time All-State selection, and a three-time All-District and All-Conference honoree, while also contributing to two Missouri Class 2 Baseball semifinal teams. A three-time Academic All-State selection, Duke is NHS Vice President and Student Body Vice President, ranks in the top three of his graduating class, and plans to pursue pre-med studies—while continuing a strong family tradition with both parents and his brother, Jacob, as QU graduates.

Isaac Edionweme | Linebacker | Chicago, IL | Hillcrest High School
Hillcrest High School linebacker Isaac Edionweme joins Quincy from Chicago, Illinois, bringing energy and physicality to the Hawks' defense. Edionweme developed into a hard-nosed defender during his prep career and looks to continue making plays at the next level. He chose Quincy because of the program's energy and competitive mindset, eager to contribute and help the Hawks win.

Landon Ford | Running Back | Hoffman Estates, IL | Hoffman Estates High School
Hoffman Estates High School running back Landon Ford joins Quincy from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, where he developed into a reliable and hard-working back during his prep career. Ford brings toughness and consistency to the Hawks' backfield and was also recognized in the classroom with National High School Honors Society distinction. He adds both athleticism and a strong academic foundation as he begins his collegiate career at Quincy.

Jayden Fragoso | Offensive Lineman | Markham, IL | Hillcrest High School
Hillcrest High School offensive lineman Jayden Fragoso joins Quincy from Markham, Illinois, after anchoring the trenches during his prep career. Known for toughness and consistency, Fragoso brings strength and reliability to the Hawks' front. He also excelled academically, earning membership in the National Honor Society.

Jaylen Garrett | Defensive Back | Racine, WI | J.I. Case High School
J.I. Case High School defensive back Jaylen Garrett joins Quincy from Racine, Wisconsin, bringing experience from a program that enjoyed historic success during his career. Garrett helped lead J.I. Case to its first playoff appearance and postseason win as a sophomore, followed by the highest win total in program history as a junior, and the school's first-ever home playoff win as a senior. He earned Honorable Mention All-Conference honors as a junior before collecting Second Team All-Conference and Second Team All-County recognition his senior year. A multi-sport athlete, Garrett also helped capture a conference title in track and field while earning multiple honors in the hurdles.

Taylor Graham | Wide Receiver | Pittsfield, IL | Pittsfield High School
Pittsfield High School wide receiver Taylor Graham heads to Quincy from Pittsfield, Illinois, bringing speed and all-around athleticism to the Hawks' offense. A dynamic multi-sport standout, Graham qualified for the state track meet in the 100m, 4x100, 4x200 (twice), and 4x400 relays, while earning First Team All-Conference honors at wide receiver and Honorable Mention recognition at defensive back. He also led his basketball team in points, assists, field goal percentage, and free throw percentage. Off the field, Graham was an Illinois State Scholar, NHS Secretary, an Honor Roll student, and maintained straight A's, choosing Quincy for the welcoming atmosphere and close-to-home fit.

Connor Griffin | Offensive Lineman | Aurora, IL | Oswego East High School
Oswego East High School offensive lineman Connor Griffin joins Quincy from Aurora, Illinois, bringing versatility with experience at both left guard and defensive tackle. Griffin earned All-Conference and All-Area honors and was named his team's Overall Lineman MVP for his impact on both sides of the ball. He also demonstrated leadership as a Bionic Club leader and maintained consistent academic success. Griffin adds toughness, intelligence, and a team-first mindset to the Hawks' line.

J'Mari Jackson | Defensive Back | Hoffman Estates, IL | Hoffman Estates High School
Hoffman Estates High School defensive back J'Mari Jackson comes to Quincy from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, where he competed in both football and track & field throughout his prep career. On the field, Jackson was a key contributor in the defensive backfield, pairing well with the speed that helped him qualify for state in track events and earn multiple all-conference and all-sectional honors. He chose Quincy for the opportunity to continue his athletic and academic growth as part of the Hawks' program.

Konner Johnson | Wide Receiver | Milledgeville, IL | Milledgeville High School
Milledgeville High School wide receiver Konner Johnson joins Quincy from Milledgeville, Illinois, after helping his team finish as the 8-man state runner-up and capture an NUIC Conference Championship. Johnson earned First Team All-Conference honors for his playmaking ability and offensive impact. He also excelled in the classroom as a High Honor Roll student and National Honor Society member. Johnson brings speed, skill, and a strong academic mindset to the Hawks' receiving corps.

Roger LaBorn | Wide Receiver | Savanna, IL | West Carroll High School
West Carroll High School wide receiver Roger LaBorn brings size and big-play ability to Quincy from Savanna, Illinois. LaBorn ranked second in the state in receiving statistics in the I8FA and earned unanimous First Team All-Conference honors at wide receiver, along with Honorable Mention recognition at cornerback and All-State honors. He totaled 20 receptions for 707 yards and 11 touchdowns, averaging 35.4 yards per catch, while also earning Honor Roll recognition. LaBorn chose Quincy for the coaching staff, welcoming campus, and strong atmosphere.

Cayden Laubenthal | Offensive Lineman | Belleville, IL | Althoff Catholic High School
Althoff Catholic High School offensive lineman Cayden Laubenthal heads to Quincy from Belleville, Illinois, following a standout career in the trenches. Laubenthal helped power Althoff Catholic to a Class 1A State Championship in 2024, playing a key role up front throughout the season. He brings size, strength, and championship experience to the Hawks as he continues his development at the collegiate level.

Terrell Lyles | Wide Receiver | St. Louis, MO | Pattonville High School
Pattonville High School wide receiver Terrell Lyles joins Quincy from St. Louis, Missouri, after helping lead Pattonville to a Class 6 Conference Championship during his prep career. Lyles brings athleticism and playmaking ability to the Hawks' receiving corps and looks to build on his success as he makes the transition to the college game.

Tyler Meziere | Wide Receiver | Bartlett, IL | Bartlett High School
Bartlett High School wide receiver Tyler Meziere comes to Quincy from Bartlett, Illinois, after a highly accomplished prep career on the field and in the classroom. Meziere earned Fox Valley All-Area honors, Aurora Beacon All-Area First Team recognition, Red Grange All-County honors, and was named his team's MVP, while also collecting First Team All-Conference accolades twice in the Upstate Eight Conference. He was a four-year Esteemed Honor Roll student, a four-time UEC Academic All-Conference selection, and an Illinois State Scholar. Meziere adds playmaking ability, leadership, and a strong academic foundation to Quincy's receiving corps.

Alfredo Muniz | Offensive Lineman | Chicago, IL | ITW David Speer Academy
ITW David Speer Academy offensive lineman Alfredo Muniz comes to Quincy from Chicago, Illinois, where he anchored the line for a Noble League Championship squad. Muniz earned Lineman of the Year honors from his coaching staff and quickly developed a passion for offensive line play after transitioning into the position. He takes pride in a team-first approach and brings a relentless work ethic to the Hawks' front.

Owen Niebruegge | Linebacker | Waterloo, IL | Waterloo High School
Waterloo High School linebacker Owen Niebruegge heads to Quincy from Waterloo, Illinois, bringing versatility and production to the Hawks' linebacker unit. Niebruegge earned Second Team All-Conference honors at safety as a junior before a standout senior season that included First Team All-Conference recognition at both running back and linebacker, along with Honorable Mention All-State and All-Area honors. He was named Co-Team MVP and earned the title of Waterloo Mr. Football, while also posting four years of Honor Roll recognition. Niebruegge chose Quincy because he believes in the coaching staff's development plan and was impressed by the program's facilities.

Marcus Nobles | Defensive Back | Mascoutah, IL | Mascoutah High School
Mascoutah High School defensive back Marcus Nobles joins Quincy from Mascoutah, Illinois, bringing athleticism and leadership to the Hawks' secondary. Nobles earned First Team All-Conference honors twice and served as a team captain, highlighting both his performance and leadership. A multi-sport athlete, he also qualified for sectionals three times in wrestling. He chose Quincy for its aviation program and the overall fit he felt with the football program.

Judah Pruitt | Kicker | East St. Louis, IL | East St. Louis Senior High School
East St. Louis Senior High School kicker Judah Pruitt heads to Quincy from East St. Louis, Illinois, bringing a strong leg and special teams consistency to the Hawks. Pruitt earned three-star kicker recognition and was ranked 49th among kickers in Illinois during his prep career. Focused on continued improvement, he takes pride in extra reps and preparation with the goal of delivering points whenever called upon.

Quinn Schnarre | Linebacker | Wright City, MO | Wright City High School
Wright City High School linebacker Quinn Schnarre comes to Quincy from Wright City, Missouri, after a decorated prep career on the field and in the classroom. Schnarre earned Second Team All-State honors while also being named First Team All-District, First Team All-Conference, First Team All-Metro St. Louis, and his team's MVP. He set the school bench press record at 335 pounds and joined the 1,000-pound club across bench, squat, and clean. Academically, he was an Academic All-State selection, NHS member, Missouri Boys State attendee, and dual enrollment student, graduating with a 4.18 GPA.

Aden Scott | Linebacker | Hannibal, MO | Hannibal High School
Hannibal High School product Aden Scott joins Quincy as a linebacker after a decorated prep career in Hannibal, Missouri. Scott helped lead his team to three NCMC Conference championships, three Class 4A District titles, and a runner-up finish at the Class 4A state tournament. He earned multiple First Team All-Conference and All-District honors, Unanimous First Team All-State recognition at defensive end, and was named Defensive Lineman of the Year while leading his team in sacks for two seasons. Scott also competed in track and field and was a two-time Academic All-State honoree and NHS member.

Camron Smith | Linebacker | Washington, MO | Washington High School
Washington High School linebacker Camron Smith joins the Hawks from Washington, Missouri, after helping lead his team to a Class 5 District runner-up finish during his prep career. Smith earned Second Team All-District honors at linebacker and added All-Conference Academic accolades in the classroom. Planning to study political science at Quincy, Smith is eager to make an impact while embracing the opportunity to become part of the Quincy football family.

Ryan Star | Offensive Lineman | Batavia, IL | Batavia High School
Batavia High School offensive lineman Ryan Star joins Quincy from Batavia, Illinois, bringing toughness and experience to the trenches. Star earned All-Conference Honorable Mention recognition and helped lead his team to a DuKane Conference Championship. He adds physicality and a strong work ethic as he begins his collegiate career with the Hawks.

Connor Talley | Defensive Lineman | Jerseyville, IL | Jerseyville Community High School
Jersey Community High School product Connor Talley joins Quincy as a defensive lineman from Jerseyville, Illinois. Talley earned First Team All-Conference honors on both sides of the ball at offensive guard and defensive tackle, showcasing his versatility and toughness. He also earned High Honor Roll recognition and membership in the National Honor Society. Talley brings a strong work ethic and two-way experience to Quincy's defensive front.

Seth Teague | Defensive Back | Bourbonnais, IL | Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School
Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School defensive back Seth Teague joins Quincy from Bourbonnais, Illinois, bringing speed and athleticism to the Hawks' secondary. Teague helped lead his team to an SWSC Championship and was part of the school-record 4x100 relay team. He also earned National Honor Society membership and plans to study business at Quincy, adding quickness, discipline, and competitiveness to the defensive backfield.

Zachary Woodberry | Running Back | Chicago, IL | De La Salle Institute
De La Salle Institute running back Zachary Woodberry joins Quincy from Chicago, Illinois, after a strong prep career. Woodberry earned CCL All-Conference honors for his production and impact in the backfield, showcasing his ability to generate plays on offense. He also earned High Honors recognition three times. Woodberry adds athleticism, discipline, and balance to the Hawks' running back group.

Aiden Burrell-Warfield | Defensive Back | Kenosha, WI | Iowa Central Community College
Indian Trail High School and Academy graduate Aiden Burrell-Warfield brings versatility to the Quincy secondary as a defensive back from Kenosha, Wisconsin. Burrell-Warfield earned Southeast Conference Honorable Mention honors in 2021 before serving as a team captain and collecting Second Team All-Conference recognition in 2022, and was rated the third-ranked defensive back in the region by Prepared Zone during the 2022–23 cycle. At Iowa Central, he earned NJCAA Division I All-Region Honorable Mention honors and helped his squad secure a bowl game victory in 2024.

Drew Copenhaver | Defensive Back | Quincy, IL | Morningside University
Palmyra High School defensive back Drew Copenhaver joins the Hawks from Quincy, Illinois, after competing at Palmyra and spending his freshman season at Morningside University. Copenhaver adds depth and versatility to the secondary and brings familiarity with the local football scene. He looks to continue his development and make an impact on the back end for Quincy.

Zach Hudson | Offensive Lineman | Imperial, MO | Southeast Missouri State University
Seckman High School product Zach Hudson joins Quincy as a transfer from Southeast Missouri State University, bringing three years of collegiate experience to the Hawks' offensive line. Hudson earned Lineman of the Year honors and First Team All-Conference recognition during his prep career at Seckman. With size, strength, and veteran experience in the trenches, Hudson adds depth and leadership to Quincy's front.

Aaron Jacobsen | Offensive Lineman | Tucson, AZ | Adams State University
Canyon del Oro High School offensive lineman Aaron Jacobsen joins Quincy as a transfer from Adams State University, bringing collegiate experience and championship pedigree to the Hawks' front. A Tucson native, Jacobsen helped lead Canyon del Oro to a 4A State Championship and earned First Team All-State honors for his play in the trenches. He adds size, strength, and veteran leadership as he continues his career at Quincy.

Jamarcus "JJ" Jenkins | Defensive Back | Atlanta, GA | Illinois College
Columbia High School defensive back Jamarcus "JJ" Jenkins joins Quincy as a transfer from Illinois College, where he spent two seasons at the collegiate level. Jenkins earned Second Team All-Conference and All-Region honors while helping his team make an Elite 8 postseason appearance. In high school, he played quarterback and wide receiver, giving him strong offensive instincts that translate well to the secondary, and he was also a member of the National Honor Society.

Jackson Metzdorff | Offensive Lineman | Bloomington, IL | Western Illinois University
Bloomington Central Catholic High School offensive lineman Jackson Metzdorff joins Quincy as a transfer from Western Illinois University after spending two seasons competing at the collegiate level. Metzdorff earned All-Conference and All-Area honors while helping lead BCC to an Illini Prairie Conference Championship and served as a team captain as a multi-sport athlete. In college, he showcased versatility as a two-way player along the offensive and defensive lines. Metzdorff brings experience, leadership, and toughness to the Hawks' front.

Danny Novickas | Defensive Lineman | Chicago, IL | Ohio University
Mount Carmel High School defensive lineman Danny Novickas joins Quincy as a transfer from Ohio University, bringing high-level experience and a championship background to the Hawks' defense. Novickas was a two-time Outstanding Inside Linebacker of the Year and a two-time First Team CCL/ESCC All-Conference selection at Mount Carmel, helping lead the program to the 2022 Class 7A State Championship and a No. 1 overall ranking in Illinois. Rated a three-star athlete by ON3Sports and 247Sports, he also earned an invite to the Under Armour Next Ray Lewis Camp. At Ohio, he was part of multiple postseason title teams, including the Myrtle Beach Bowl, MAC Championship, and Cure Bowl.

Xavier Scherffius | Defensive Lineman | Bonne Terre, MO | Southwest Baptist University
North County High School defensive lineman Xavier Scherffius joins Quincy from Bonne Terre, Missouri, after spending his freshman season at Southwest Baptist University. Scherffius earned All-Conference honors three times and added All-District recognition during his prep career, while also earning Academic All-State honors on three occasions. He brings physical play, consistency, and a strong work ethic to the Hawks' defensive front as he looks to make an immediate impact.

Quincy's Signing Class of 2026 features a strong blend of championship experience, high-level production, and proven leadership from across Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Florida, Arizona, and Georgia. With a mix of impact freshmen and college transfers, the Hawks add depth at every level on both sides of the ball heading into the upcoming season. Killday and his staff look forward to welcoming the class to campus and getting the group to work as Quincy continues building toward the future.