Decatur enters the 2026 season looking to build off a down 2025 season. The team made the move from Class 5A to Class 6A but remains with most of the same region as last year. However, the region is much more winnable than it has been the previous two years. Woodward Academy is out, and no team of the War Eagles’ caliber replaced them. The team will be replacing some star players, as running back Sadur Salahuddin and wide receiver Cameron Jacob Frazier both graduated after the 2025 season. However, quarterback Jenssen Kaivani will return for his second season as the team’s starter. On defense, the defensive back duo of Isaac McCalep and Chace Forbes should slow opposing passing attacks and take pressure off the front seven.
One question that needs answering is who will replace Ronin Simms. Last year, Simms made 50 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks from his outside linebacker position. If players like Edward Senter can take on an even bigger role than last year, Simms’ production can be replaced. Region 4-6A is wide open this coming season, and the Bulldogs can most definitely make a run at the title. While region titles now only guarantee a first-round home game, winning the region is the only way a team can guarantee its spot in the playoffs. Decatur has the most recent region title, winning it in 2022, and has been one of the more consistent teams in the region.
Head Coach: William Felton
Coach Record: 40-24
2025 Record: 4-6
2025 Region Record: 4-3
2026 Region: 4-6A
Stadium Name: Bulldog Stadium
2026 Schedule:
8/20 @ Blessed Trinity
8/28 @ Stephenson (Hallford Stadium)
9/04 Shiloh
9/11 @ Lakeside-DeKalb (Adams Stadium)
9/18 Meadowcreek
10/02 Alcovy
10/09 @ Midtown (Henderson Stadium)
10/16 @ Heritage-Conyers
10/23 Dunwoody
10/29 @ Chamblee (North DeKalb)
