Football | 2/4/2026 5:48:00 PM

DOVER - Seven new Hornet football players are headed to Dover, Delaware, after signing their National Letter of Intent on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. Many high school athletes' dreams of playing football at the next level have become a reality for these young men today.
Head coach DeSean Jackson had a few thoughts after national signing day as he enters his second season as head coach of the Hornets.
"Bringing in seven new players on National Signing Day shows the direction we're going — young men with talent, passion, and a commitment to grow. This class isn't just about counting numbers; it's about building culture, fostering competition, and creating opportunities. I told these guys from the moment they stepped on campus that when you put in the work and believe in each other, great things happen," said head coach DeSean Jackson.
Starting with the Safties:
Mark Ricks - 6'1 / 180 LBS (LOS ANGELES, CA)
Cornerbacks:
Jaylen Whitaker - 5'11 / 175 LBS ( LOS ANGELES, CA)
Linebackers:
Joshua Clark - 6'0 / 225 LBS (CORONA, CA)
Wide receivers:  
Hayden Thompson - 6'2 / 185 LBS (CHANTILLY, VA)
Connor Thompson - 6'1 / 185 LBS (CHANTILLY, VA)
Athlete:
Tyrell Eldridge - 6'1 / 215 LBS (ATLANTA, GA)
Kickers:
Matteo Bracalenti - 5'10 / 180 LBS (WEST GROVE, PA)
"I'm proud of these young men and look forward to continuing to add to the Hornet family," said head coach DeSean Jackson.
Coach Jackson and the Delaware State football staff, alongside the entire athletic department, would like to officially welcome the young men who signed today, along with the 20 who signed during early signing day in December.