TYSON HELTON (HC) – Tyson Helton is beginning his eighth season as the head coach for WKU. In his first season he was able to generate an impressive turnaround for the program. After a six win improvement from the previous season prior to Helton, the Hilltoppers finished second in their conference. Since Helton’s start he has consistently led Western Kentucky to winning seasons and produced NFL talent. Even with a new group of guys on the roster, Helton believes he has the team to win championships.

‌RODNEY TISDALE JR (QB #5) – Sophomore, Rodney Tisdale Jr. is entering this season as the new starting quarterback for the Hilltoppers. Tisdale started in six games last season under injured Maverick McIvor. In those six games Tisdale went 139/412, threw for 1,432 yards and nine touchdowns, showing clear promise winning CUSA Freshman of the Year. Against Nevada last week, Tisdale threw for 203 yards and zero touchdowns, depending on a new group of receivers due to the draft and transfer portal.

‌K.D. HUTCHINSON (WR #2) – K.D. Hutchinson suffered an undisclosed injury mid-week prior to the Hilltoppers game against Nevada last Saturday. He is expected to be a key player for the offense based on his performance at WKU in the 2025 season. Hutchinson had 618 yards on 66 receptions accounting for three touchdowns last year. In his final season with Western Kentucky, his leadership, experience and speed are expected to carry the offense as their primary chain mover.

‌JAYLEN LEWIS (DB #7) – Since Jaylen Lewis transferred to WKU for his junior season, he has shown out as a defensive back. His power and speed allow him to shine even against powerhouses such as LSU, where he had a season high total tackles (15) in Death Valley. In the 2025 season Lewis totaled 74 tackles, one forced fumble and three interceptions. Due to Lewis’ offseason testing, he earned himself a spot on The Athletic’s College Football Freaks List. He led the Hilltoppers in total tackles in their opener against Nevada with six.

‌JAYLEN WESTER (LB #21) – Jaylen Wester is a veteran at western Kentucky, with experience at Colorado and FAU, Wester exudes power and leadership. Wester posted double-digit tackles in four games last season, with a season high 17 against LSU. He ended the season ranked in the top 50 nationally and is known for his consistent energy and speed throughout the game.

‌LATREVION THOMPSON (DE #13) – LaTravevion transferred to WKU after four years with SEMO, where he recorded 71 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. At SEMO he was listed as a linebacker, whereas at WKU he is trying out the edge, but he has the potential to drop back for pass coverage. Thompson brings immense in-game experience to the Hilltoppers, as he has started 35 games in his career.