The 2026 Grand Valley State football squad opened practice for the 55th campaign of Laker Football today with a spirited two-hour practice this afternoon. Fourth-year head coach Scott Wooster welcomed 136 players and five new coaches to the practice field in preparation for the 2026 season opener at Charleston (W.V.) August 27 at 6 p.m.

Grand Valley State is ranked sixth in the Lindy's 2026 College Football preseason DII rankings and was picked second in the GLIAC preseason poll. GVSU has now been ranked in the top 10 of a national preseason poll 22 times since 2002 (25 polls), including 18 top five rankings and 14 top three rankings. The Lakers return 66 letterwinners and seven transfers that played significant roles at their previous institutions. In addition, GVSU returns seven starters on both sides of the ball. 

"It felt so good to get back on the practice field with this group to build on what we did in a very productive spring," said Wooster. "We have a nice nucleus of returnees, and added some pieces that will enhance our productivity on both sides of the ball in all facets." 

The Lakers return a core group of players on both sides of the ball, but the key ingredient will be return of head coach Scott Wooster taking back the coaching of the offensive line. The addition of two key transfers on the offensive line, Isaac Tavo and Jelani Harbor, and the return of preseason All-American candidate, Evan Curtiss, bolster what will be one of the top offensive lines in the country. In addition, Josh Martin, Josh Sander and Franky McFadden return up front, while tight ends Evan Furtney and Harrison Unger provide quality experience. Sophomore QB Andrew Schuster is coming a solid freshman campaign, throwing for 2,561 yards and 22 touchdowns and senior WR Kellen Reed is the top returning target with 36 receptions for 612 yards and eight TDs. Junior running back Paschal Anyanwu is ready for a breakout season. 
 
Defensively, GVSU returns standouts at all three levels, led by linebackers Jimmy Downs (57 tackles) and Torian Wyatt (46 tackles). Quinn Wills, Josh Anderson and Tony Roberts all provide play-making ability at safety and cornerbacks Deonte Pippen, Tre Green and Chris Little form a top-tier look on the outside. Defensive ends Ryder Gravenhof, Landon VanBeek and David Osagiede are key returnees and Tyus Jackson will hold down the middle.

The 2026 season will feature five home games and tickets can be purchased at GVSUlakers.com.