2026 Countdown to Kickoff: Caprock Longhorns

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - Caprock enters the 2026 season looking to reach the playoffs after coming up just short last fall, with head coach Rowdy Freeman saying his team’s daily energy has been building since preseason camp began.

“At the start of the week last week, we were super excited. We were ready to go,” Freeman said. “That alarm clock goes off at 4:30, 4:45, and we’re popping out of bed. We are ready to work. These guys just love being around one another.”

Talent at the skill positions

Freeman said this year’s roster is among the most talented the program has had in years.

“I think we’re as talented at the skill position as we’ve been in a long time. Up front, O-line, D-line, we’ve got some big bodies, some guys that can move and are strong,” Freeman said. “I just love the sense of urgency that we’re moving around with.”

Learning from last season

Freeman said a slow start against Monterey last season, which led to a coin flip for a playoff spot, has stuck with the team heading into 2026.

“Last year, if we would have gone down to Monterey and taken care of business, the whole coin flip thing wouldn’t have happened,” Freeman said. “We spotted Monterey 17 points and just couldn’t dig ourselves out of that hole. We’re not good enough to spot teams.”

What fans can expect

Freeman said the Longhorns take pride in representing their community both on and off the field.

“You’re going to see a group of guys that are proud to represent the Eastside community. These guys are Rock boys through and through,” Freeman said. “You’re going to have a group of guys that go out and play the game the right way.”

Players speak

Junior quarterback and defensive back KT Medlock said the coaching staff emphasizes character as much as football.

“I feel like the coaches are teaching us how to be a man. Part of that first step is God — get that right. And then how to communicate, how to be disciplined, and how to show up,” Medlock said.

Medlock said playing for the team’s seniors carries extra motivation.

“I feel like I have to give them something that they’ve been wanting for a long time,” Medlock said. “It’s about having fun, having a brotherhood out there, playing hard 110% all the time.”

Senior offensive lineman Jesus Ramirez said his final season with his teammates means everything to him.

“It’s like a blessing to be here, especially with my brothers. We’ve worked all this four years, days and night,” Ramirez said. “I’m just blessed to be here with them.”

Junior linebacker and running back Taylor Lewis said he wants to set a standard with his play this season.

“I hope I set a standard. Just play hard and if something goes wrong, just focus on the next play, get the job done,” Lewis said.

2026 Caprock football Schedule

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