Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

Pekin returns 13 starters from playoff team ahead of 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 3:03 AM

Last updated Aug 18, 2026

Pekin returns 13 starters from playoff team ahead of 2026 season

Summary

Pekin, Illinois prepares for the 2026 football season with a roster that includes 13 returning starters from its 2025 playoff team. Coach Doug Nutter has a healthy squad of approximately 115 players, featuring seven offensive and six defensive starters. Star wide receiver Dylan Anderson, who missed last season due to injury, rejoins the team along with the returning Bray Kormah and Keyshawn Walker. The team's first game is scheduled for August 21 against Plainfield South.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Pekin team has 13 returning starters from last year's playoff squad.
•Dylan Anderson returns after a season-ending knee injury.
•Senior Matthew Stropes takes over as starting quarterback.
•Team opens the season at home against Plainfield South on August 21.

Latest Updates

3:03 AMYahoo Sports — Boot Camp: Pekin brings back significant experience from playoff team

What they're saying

"
PEKIN, Ill. (WMBD/WYZZ) — Pekin is healthy, experienced and ready for the 2026 football season. Coach Doug Nutter says he has about 115 players in his program but most importantly 13 returning starters from his 2025 playoff squad. The Dragons bring back seven offensive starters and six defensive starters from a 5-5 playoff team that […]
— Yahoo Sports

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