Football Opens 2026 Campaign At Wake Forest Thursday
- Akron returns 59 players and 16 starters, including nine offensive starters and seven defensive starters, but also added 48 newcomers led by 32 transfers.
- Running back Jordan Gant returns after rushing for 1,032 yards in 2025, Akron's first 1,000-yard season by a player since 2008.
- Marcel Williams leads the returning receiving production after recording 45 catches for 641 yards and two touchdowns last season.
- Cyrus Durham returns as a proven backfield disruptor after producing 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks and 31 tackles in 2025.
- Akron opens on the road against Wake Forest after ending 2025 on a 3-1 run, but Thursday will be the programs' first meeting.
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