HEALDTON BULLDOGS
Coach: BEN JUSTUS
9-3
Coming off a 9-3 season, Healdton enters 2026 with expectations that are “much higher,” according to head coach Ben Justus. The Bulldogs return a strong core of playmakers and a group of younger athletes eager to step into bigger roles. Justus believes that combination of experience and emerging talent can keep Healdton among the contenders in its class. With confidence built from last fall and another year in the system, this team is focused on taking the next step.
Offensively, Healdton will attack out of its familiar wing-T, using multiple backs and misdirection to keep defenses guessing. Quarterback Luke Puckett (6-0, 200) is back after throwing for 900 yards and accounting for 14 total touchdowns, giving the Bulldogs a proven leader under center. He will be joined in the backfield by fullback Angel Vela (5-9, 200), who rushed for over 200 yards and contributed as a receiver, and explosive running back Heath Rico (5-10, 180), a big-play threat whenever he touches the ball. Up front, linemen Truston Ramsey (5-9, 200), Hunter Josey (6-0, 240) and Brandt Rich (6-0, 220) provide a physical foundation that allows the offense to lean on the run game and play to its identity.
On defense, Healdton brings back seven starters in a multiple-front scheme built on aggressiveness and attacking the line of scrimmage. Rich leads the linebacker unit after making 42 tackles and snagging an interception, while Vela adds another physical presence in the middle. On the back end, Jaxon Thompson (5-10, 170) returns as a proven ballhawk in coverage, while Rico is a key piece at safety after a productive season patrolling the secondary. In the trenches, Ramsey and Josey anchor the defensive line, combining for double-digit tackles for loss and multiple forced fumbles. With veterans at every level and a philosophy centered on pressure, the Bulldogs expect their defense to set the tone again in 2026.
9-4 – vs. Comanche
9-11 – at Tishomingo
9-18 – vs. Stratford
9-25 – at Wayne
10-2 – vs. Ringling
10-9 – at Canadian
10-15 – vs. Konawa
10-23 – at Wilson
10-30 – vs. Allen
11-6 – at Wewoka
To nominate a high school student for a feature in VYPE Magazine email a nomination to [email protected]
