Mississippi State football highlights NFL alumni and 2026 season outlook

Mississippi State University football is entering a period of significant activity across both the professional and collegiate levels. In the NFL, the university has a substantial presence with 24 alumni currently involved in rosters and coaching staffs. Notable former Bulldogs include Pro Bowlers Dak Prescott, Chris Jones, Jeffery Simmons, and Montez Sweat, as well as several first-round draft picks and Super Bowl champions.

On the collegiate side, the Bulldogs are preparing to open their 2026 season at Davis Wade Stadium against Louisiana-Monroe. Head coach Jeff Lebby enters his third season following an offseason that included a transfer portal class ranked 13th nationally. The team expects significant contributions from returning talent, including sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor and senior defensive back Kelly Jones, who opted to return to the program after declining the NFL draft.