WESTVILLE YELLOWJACKETS
Coach: CRAIG LAIRD
2-8
Westville heads into 2026 in transition but encouraged by growing numbers and returning strength in the trenches. The Yellowjackets went 2-8 in Craig Laird’s first season and graduated nine seniors, including leading rusher Hunter Catron, quarterback Sammy Smith and leading tackler Brennon Gatewood, leaving major production to replace. The roster is larger than a year ago, creating more depth, and there is experience on both lines to lean on while new skill players settle in.
Junior quarterback Elijah Swake takes over after seeing limited action last fall, flashing big-play ability with two carries for 57 yards and a touchdown. Senior running back and VYPE Top 100 nominee Cam Crawford will become a featured option after averaging 3.7 yards per carry with three catches for 19 yards and a score. The offensive line should be a clear strength, anchored by powerlifting state qualifiers Tanner Bigfeather (5-9, 220), Noah Shelley (5-7, 310) and Raymond Watkins (5-11, 270). Senior receiver JW Thurman (6-1, 165) returns after averaging 6.5 yards per catch and gives Swake a familiar target. Westville will run a multiple offense out of 12 personnel built around its physical line and versatile skill players.
Defensively, six starters return in a multiple-front scheme. Thurman moves to safety after recording 35 tackles and an interception, while Bigfeather shifts inside to linebacker after totaling 34 tackles. Crawford returns at linebacker after posting 25 tackles and two fumble recoveries. Shelley anchors the defensive line, while seniors Silas Standingbear (33 tackles, two interceptions) and Kyle Kiddy (37 tackles) add experience to the back seven.
The Yellowjackets open with non-district games at Spiro and Lincoln before district matchups against Hulbert, Rejoice Christian, Okmulgee, Henryetta, Claremore Sequoyah, Tulsa Central, Holland Hall and Sperry. With improved depth, an experienced offensive line and emerging playmakers like Swake and Crawford, Westville believes it can take a step forward in Laird’s second season.
8-28 – at Spiro
9-4 – at Lincoln
9-18 – vs. Hulbert
9-25 – at Rejoice Christian
10-2 – vs. Okmulgee
10-9 – at Henryetta
10-15 – vs. Claremore Sequoyah
10-23 – at Tulsa Central
10-30 – vs. Holland Hall
11-6 – vs. Sperry
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