As the 2026 high school football season kicks off, the North Puget Sound League (NPSL) promises another year of intense competition across its 4A and 3A divisions. Below is a detailed look at the projected standings, coaching changes, and early‑season matchups that will shape the race for league supremacy.
4A Division Outlook
Kennedy Catholic Lancers (8‑1, 7‑0 league) – The Burien‑based Lancers remain the team to beat. After capturing the championship last season, they return with a deep roster and a seasoned coaching staff. Dethroning them will require a truly Herculean effort.
Kentwood Conquerors (7‑2, 6‑1 league) – Coach Quincey Davison’s first year was a success, and his second season looks even stronger. If freshman recruit Calvin Ibale, a recent commit from George Fox University, can translate his talent to the high school level, Kentwood should stay near the top.
Auburn Trojans (6‑3, 5‑2 league) – New head coach Kevin Thomson brings fresh energy and a new mentality. While the Trojans have the potential to climb, they will face stiff tests against Kennedy and Kentwood on the road.
Tahoma Bears (6‑3, 5‑2 league) – The Bears open with one of the toughest schedules in the state, facing Eastlake and state champion Sumner in the first two weeks. If they stay healthy and navigate those early hurdles, they could re‑enter the top‑three by season’s end.
Mount Rainier Rams (5‑4, 4‑3 league) – After finishing just under .500 in league play last year, the Rams have added a few transfers hoping to make an immediate impact. Their opening clash with Tahoma will set the tone for the rest of the campaign.
Stadium Tigers (5‑4, 4‑3 league) – Despite losing senior leader Darius Sum and seeing 22 seniors graduate, Stadium has shown resilience in recent years. Early games against Olympia and Kennedy will test whether the Tigers can quickly re‑establish themselves as a league contender.
Auburn Riverside Ravens (2‑7, 1‑6 league) – Coach Darrin Reeves enters his second season with a roster that boasts several offensive playmakers. However, the defense allowed 41.6 points per game last season, the fourth‑most in the league, making improvement essential.
Kentridge Chargers (2‑7, 0‑6 league) – Former UW player‑turned‑coach Robert Thomas faces a steep climb. The Chargers scored the second‑fewest points per game in the NPSL last season and allowed nearly 60 points per game, the highest total.
3A Division Outlook
Federal Way Eagles (9‑0, 8‑0 league) – The Eagles return with a deep roster of over 80 players in camp. Head coach Marcus Yzaguirre has built a strong support system, positioning Federal Way as a potential surprise powerhouse.
White River Hornets (8‑1, 7‑1 league) – Last season’s defensive stalwarts graduate only 14 players, keeping the core intact. Their home‑field advantage and a schedule that includes a home game against Enumclaw give them a solid chance to stay near the top.
Enumclaw Hornets (8‑1, 7‑1 league) – Veteran coach Mark Gunderson continues to produce solid teams. With Federal Way emerging as a contender, Enumclaw will be part of a three‑team battle for league leadership.
Decatur Gators (7‑2, 6‑2 league) – First‑year head coach Evan Cook brings a mix of offensive talent, including Antione Williams and Scottie Dinwiddie. The Gators must stay healthy and find ways to pressure the top three to make noise in the standings.
Auburn Mountainview Lions (4‑5, 4‑4 league) – New coach Jordan Wenger’s emphasis on culture should help the Lions close the gap with the league’s elite. They remain in the middle tier, looking to break into the top five.
Thomas Jefferson Raiders (4‑5, 3‑5 league) – Under Tremaine Mack, the Raiders showed promise with several close losses last season. Continued development could see them climb out of the bottom half.
Kent‑Meridian Royals (4‑5, 3‑5 league) – After a dramatic 44‑8 win over Kentlake last season, the Royals aim to recapture the form that carried them to four wins in 2023.
Kentlake Falcons (2‑7, 1‑7 league) – Coach Rob Hammond returns for a second season, providing continuity. While not expected to contend for the top, the Falcons hope to improve on a challenging previous year.
Todd Beamer Titans (0‑9, 0‑9 league) – The Titans endured a winless season last year, with their closest game a 18‑point loss to Thomas Jefferson. Coach Marcus Yzaguirre praised their effort, noting the team played hard despite the results.
Key Themes for the Season
Coaching continuity and fresh leadership dominate the narrative across both divisions. Teams with returning coaches—Kennedy Catholic, Kentwood, Federal Way, and White River—are positioned to maintain their success, while newcomers like Auburn (4A) and Decatur (3A) will look to make immediate impacts.
Injuries and depth will also play a crucial role. Early‑season matchups such as Tahoma vs. Eastlake and Stadium vs. Olympia could set the tone for teams battling for playoff spots.
Overall, the 2026 NPSL football season promises a blend of established powerhouses and rising challengers, offering local fans plenty of excitement as the teams vie for league supremacy.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
