The Rays Reporter

With the pads officially back on, the mission this spring is clear: find the next generation of playmakers to lead us back to a winning record. We’re moving into a new era after graduating some heavy hitters, but the cupboard is far from empty.

Here is how the roster is shaking out as we head into the second week of spring ball.

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Quarterback: The Competition for the Signal Caller

With the graduation of some veteran experience, the QB battle is the most watched storyline this spring.

• The Contenders: We’re looking closely at Devon Spanninger (Jr.) and Antonio Clements (Jr.). Both bring different styles to the field. Spanninger has shown a high football IQ and defensive grit that translates well to under-center leadership, while Clements offers the athleticism of a multi-position threat.
• The Goal: Finding the guy who can manage the huddle and minimize turnovers, following in the footsteps of a system that put up massive points in the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

Backfield: Moving on from the “Serrano Era”

Replacing Carlos Serrano’s 25 touchdowns and 140 yards per game is no small task.

• Key Returners: Hogan Winow (So.) is a name you’ll be hearing a lot. He saw action as a freshman and has the burst to be a feature back. Joining him is Justin Gavagni (Jr.), a reliable runner who understands the blocking schemes.
• Fullback Power: Watch for Kyle Lackey (Jr.) to clear the way. Lackey is a “throwback” player who brings a physical edge to the run game that defines Manta football.

Wide Receivers & Tight Ends: Red Zone Targets

• The Deep Threat: Eli Humphrey (Jr.) and Cory Baker (Jr.) are the primary targets out wide. Humphrey is explosive off the line and has the hands to be a true #1 receiver.
• The Big Targets: At Tight End, Jacob Allese (Jr.) and Daniel Doeler (Jr.) offer massive frames (both over 6’0″) for the new QB to look for when the pocket breaks down.

The Trenches: The “Big Uglies”

Games are won and lost here, and Coach Mensing is challenging this group to be the most disciplined unit on the field.

• Leaders: Jesse Hatcher (Jr.) anchors the line. These guys have the size to move piles and the experience to mentor the younger sophomore class.

Defense: The Manta Wall

Last year’s 4-6 record was often a story of close battles. The defense is looking to close the door this year.

• Linebackers: This is the heart of our defense. Kyle Lackey (Jr.) and Noah Fiechter (Jr.) are sideline-to-sideline tacklers who aren’t afraid of contact.
• Secondary: Landon Matthews (So.) and John Ralston (Jr.) will be patrolling the deep third. Ralston also handles kicking duties, making him one of the most versatile athletes on the squad.

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Reporter’s Prediction: The “X-Factor”

I’m putting my money on Kyle Lackey being the heart and soul of this 2026 team. Whether he’s lead-blocking at fullback or crashing the gap at linebacker, his energy is what this spring rebuild is all about.