Troy Trojans Open Fall Camp with Defensive Swagger and Veteran Resolve

August 1, 2025 - TROY, AL. - The Troy Trojans kicked off their 2025 fall camp on July 30 with a clear mission: build on last season's late momentum and reassert themselves as a Sun Belt contender. Under second-year head coach Gerad Parker, the Trojans entered camp with more returning starters than any other program in the conference-a fact that's already paying dividends in intensity and execution.

"Everything we've done since January has been intentional," Parker said. "This is phase four-fall camp-and it's all about preparing our entire operation to take the field on August 30."

Quarterback Stability: Crowder Returns

After missing most of 2024 with a head injury, quarterback Goose Crowder is back under center and looking sharp. His timing and leadership have been evident in early practices, especially during tempo drills and red zone work. Crowder's return gives Troy stability at the most critical position, and his chemistry with veteran receivers has been a highlight of camp.

Behind Crowder, redshirt freshman Jah-Mal Williams has taken second-team reps, showing flashes of mobility and arm strength. While Crowder is the clear starter, Williams' development adds depth to the quarterback room.

Offensive Line: Experience Up Front

Troy returns three of five starters on the offensive line, and the unit has looked cohesive and physical through the first week. Morning practices have featured heavy emphasis on run blocking and blitz pickup, with veterans like Kam Jones and Caleb Ransom anchoring the trenches.

The line's ability to protect Crowder and open lanes for the running backs will be pivotal, especially with a new-look backfield.

Running Back Rotation: Cooley Joins the Mix

Georgia Tech transfer Trey Cooley has made an immediate impact, showcasing burst and vision during padded practices. He's joined by returner Dennis Palmer, who brings shiftiness and experience, and freshman Jaden McBride, who has impressed with his downhill style.

The trio gives Troy a balanced attack, and Parker has hinted at a committee approach early in the season. Cooley's physicality stood out during the first padded session on August 1, drawing praise from teammates and coaches alike.

Wide Receiver Corps: Depth and Chemistry

Troy's receiving group is led by senior Tez Johnson, who has been a reliable target for Crowder throughout camp. Johnson's route-running and hands have been consistent, especially in third-down drills. He's joined by sophomore speedster Malik Ross and transfer Isaiah Horton, who adds size and red zone ability.

The receivers have benefited from Crowder's return, and their timing has been a focal point during morning sessions. Expect this group to be a strength heading into the season opener.

Defensive Dominance: Pads Pop and Turnovers Fly

The most striking development in camp has been the defense's swagger and physicality. On August 1, the Trojans strapped on pads for the first time, and the defense stole the show. Defensive coordinator Dontae Wright has emphasized turnovers, and the results are showing up on film.

South Carolina transfer Elijah Davis has been a force on the edge, while linebacker Jordan Stringer-one of the team's emotional leaders-has set the tone with vocal leadership and sideline-to-sideline range. The defensive line and linebacker units return the bulk of their starters, and it's clear they're hungry to improve on last year's turnover margin.

"We were minus-7 in turnover margin last year," Wright said. "That's not good enough. We're being intentional about fixing that, and it's starting to show up."

Secondary Competition: Fast and Feisty

The defensive backfield has been a hive of competition, with multiple players rotating through reps. Cornerbacks have been aggressive in press coverage, and safeties are flying downhill in run support. The unit's depth has allowed Wright to experiment with packages and personnel, and the energy has been palpable.

Practice Format: Morning Grind, Night Lights

Troy's camp schedule has featured mostly morning practices, with a few evening sessions to simulate game conditions. The August 2 night practice gave players a chance to respond to adversity and fatigue, and Parker was candid about the results.

"Half the team showed up, and half didn't," he said. "The defense brought urgency. The offense needs to respond."

That honesty reflects Parker's no-nonsense approach. He's pushing his team to embrace discomfort and grow through friction.

Culture and Continuity: Building from Within

With nearly every player in camp having participated in summer workouts, the Trojans entered fall camp with strong internal chemistry. Parker's emphasis on intentionality and development has resonated, and the team's veteran core is leading by example.

"Those two extra months of lifting, OTAs, and being around each other are going to be priceless," Parker said.

Looking Ahead: Nicholls and the Road to Relevance

Troy opens the season at home against Nicholls on August 30, and the first week of camp has laid a solid foundation. With a returning quarterback, a deep defense, and a focused coaching staff, the Trojans are poised to take a step forward in 2025.

The next two weeks will be critical for refining execution, solidifying depth charts, and preparing for game speed. But if Week 1 is any indication, Troy is ready to bring the fight-and they're doing it with grit, experience, and a chip on their shoulder.