Photo Credit: Archie Crawford – Digital Directory/TAYP LLC
Loganville, Georgia – If Grayson High School’s 2026 Media Day was any indication of what’s ahead this fall, the Rams appear to be in excellent position for another championship-caliber season. Saturday’s event provided fans, media members, and supporters with an inside look at one of Georgia’s premier football programs. From player interviews and team photos to a competitive Green vs. Gold scrimmage, the day highlighted both the present and the future of Grayson football. The atmosphere was energetic, organized, and gave the Rams faithful plenty of reasons to be excited before the season kicks off in just a few weeks.
And while the football was the main attraction, one unexpected highlight stood out. The hospitality was second to none, including one of the most unique concession stand menus you’ll find at a high school event. Shrimp and grits at a football media day isn’t something you see every day, but it perfectly reflected the first-class experience Grayson put together.
The biggest storyline surrounding the program entering 2026 is the arrival of new head coach Greg Carswell. While Carswell is new to the head coaching position, he is certainly not new to Grayson football. His familiarity with the program has helped create a smooth transition, and his message has already resonated throughout the locker room.
When speaking with FanVerse Sports, Carswell shared what he hopes will define his tenure leading the Rams.
“I want them to know they can have fun playing football. It can be a lot of love involved, but it has to be business too,” Carswell said.
He continued by emphasizing the confidence he sees growing within his team.
“The kids have bought into what we’re doing. They believe in the plan, and they believe in themselves.”
That belief may prove to be one of Grayson’s greatest strengths this season.
Although the Rams graduated a talented senior class, expectations remain sky-high. Many around the state believe Grayson has what it takes to return to the GHSA State Championship game, thanks to a roster filled with experienced leaders and emerging stars.
Leading the offense is senior quarterback Deuce Smith, who looks poised for a breakout campaign. During his conversation with FanVerse Sports, Smith explained that his biggest area of growth this offseason has been becoming a stronger leader for his teammates. With another year of experience under his belt, he will be counted on to guide one of Georgia’s most talented offenses.
On the defensive side, Kansas State commit London Goggans enters the season as one of the state’s premier defensive backs. Despite the outside hype surrounding Grayson, Goggans remains focused on keeping the team grounded.
His message is simple: don’t get too high after victories or too low after adversity. That steady leadership will be invaluable as the Rams navigate another demanding schedule. His playmaking ability and veteran presence should anchor a defense expected to rank among the best in Georgia.
While the established stars received plenty of attention, Grayson’s future also made a strong impression Sophomore defensive tackle Rome Samuels continues to develop into a disruptive force in the trenches. During the Green vs. Gold scrimmage, Samuels recorded a sack while consistently showing the power and athleticism that have coaches excited about his development. His performance suggested he could play a significant role on the varsity defensive line this season.
Freshman defensive back Dashaun Morris II also turned heads throughout the day. Already regarded as one of the area’s top young prospects, Morris spoke with FanVerse Sports about growing up watching Grayson football since he was eight years old. Now wearing the Rams uniform himself, Morris understands the tradition that comes with the program but is focused on creating his own legacy. His confidence, maturity, and natural talent suggest he could become another standout in Grayson’s long history of elite defensive backs.
Media Day wasn’t simply about interviews, photographs, or preseason excitement. It served as a reminder of the culture that continues to make Grayson one of the state’s model football programs. There is talent throughout the roster, leadership in the locker room, and a coaching staff committed to maintaining the championship standard while building its own identity.
The Grayson Rams have embraced a new leader without lowering expectations. With experienced veterans, gifted young talent, and a team fully invested in Coach Carswell’s vision, Grayson appears ready to make a serious run at a state championship during the 2026 season.
