Carroll Football's 2026 Recruiting Class: Discover the Shocking Names That Could Change Everything!

HELENA, Mont. – Carroll College's head coach, Troy Purcell, has announced the signing of 26 new recruits for the 2026 Fighting Saints football team. This recruitment comes on the heels of a successful season in which the team made its first postseason appearance since 2022 and clinched its first NAIA Football Championship Series victory since 2014.

The recruits hail from nine different states, showcasing the breadth of talent the coaching staff has scouted far and wide. Notably, Montana players dominate this initial class with 10 local standouts. The roster also includes four players each from Idaho and Washington, along with three players from Nevada, and a handful of recruits from Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, and Oregon.

This year's recruitment strategy emphasizes not just athletic skill, but also leadership qualities. A striking 24 of the 26 new recruits have held captaincy roles on their respective high school teams, signaling a commitment to fostering a winning culture at Carroll College.

The Fighting Saints have a strong focus on multi-sport athletes, as 24 of the new recruits have earned letters in various sports, including baseball, basketball, rugby, wrestling, track and field, and even rodeo. This diverse athletic background is expected to contribute to the overall dynamism of the team.

Fans are encouraged to attend the 2026 Signing Day Radio Show on February 10 at 6 p.m., hosted at the Lewis & Clark Brewing Co. Taproom. The event will feature live commentary from the Carroll coaching staff and current players, offering insights into the new recruits and highlights from the previous season.

Spotlight on Mid-Year Transfers

Among the new additions, mid-year transfers Dylin McIntyre and Max Grady stand out. McIntyre, a defensive lineman from Kennewick, Washington, joins the Fighting Saints after a successful stint at the University of Idaho. He was a four-year starter at Kennewick High School, where he earned All-State honors and was named team captain. McIntyre expressed his excitement about joining Carroll College, stating, "I chose Carroll College because of the opportunity to compete for championships and to become the best man I can be."

Max Grady, a defensive back from Phoenix, Arizona, comes from Saddleback Junior College. A team captain and All-Conference player at Desert Vista High School, Grady is eager to contribute to the team's success. He noted, "I chose Carroll College because of the culture on campus and on the football team. I love the coaching staff, and it is a great opportunity for me to reach my potential."

High School Signees

The high school signees also bring impressive credentials. Notable among them is Ben Avella, a quarterback from Boise, Idaho, who was a two-time state champion and named the Idaho 5A Player of the Year. He mentioned, "I chose Carroll College because it felt like home from the moment I stepped on campus. The program's history of success, combined with the dedication and knowledge of the coaches, is the exact environment that I want to be a part of!"

Another standout is Eddie Balanco from Bozeman, Montana, who was an All-State kicker and achieved honors in both football and soccer. He expressed, "I chose Carroll College because the coaches and players made it feel like home when I visited. It is a great fit for me academically, and I am excited to be a part of the Catholic community on campus."

Beyond their athletic prowess, the recruits are also dedicated students. For instance, Hagen Paddock from East Helena, Montana, boasts a perfect GPA and has been involved in multiple sports. He stated, "I chose Carroll College because of the great coaching staff and culture. It has a great winning atmosphere, and I am excited to compete for championships."

With a diverse and talented group of new athletes, the Carroll College Fighting Saints are poised for continued success in the upcoming seasons. As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, their commitment to excellence—both on and off the field—remains unwavering.

For further details, fans are encouraged to visit www.carrollathletics.com for updates on the schedule and other news involving the Fighting Saints.