Kenny Jackson believes Wichita Southeast has something to prove heading into the 2026 football season.
Despite finishing near the top of the Class 6A bracket a year ago, Jackson said the Golden Buffaloes are still viewed as underdogs. That perception has fueled the team’s offseason preparation.
“I’m excited to see how this team proves everyone wrong,” Jackson said. “We were at the top of the 6A bracket last season but still seen as the underdogs. I truly believe we can compete with every team we face and have a winning record.”
Jackson has attacked the offseason with a purpose. Along with spending countless hours in the weight room, he has focused on improving his speed and flexibility while logging extra time on the practice field with teammates. He’s also gone back to the film room, studying opponents from last season in search of any advantage.
“I’ve been restudying film over teams we played last season, working hard in the weight room, training speed and flexibility, and getting extra field time with my teammates,” Jackson said.
One area of emphasis has been improving his grip strength after battling hand issues throughout last season.
“I struggled with hand issues during last season, so I’ve been doing hand and finger strengthening,” Jackson said.
Jackson is coming off a productive defensive campaign in which he recorded 65 total tackles, including 56 solo stops, 16 tackles for loss, one sack and two forced fumbles. Those numbers have only raised the standard he has set for himself.
His individual goals are ambitious.
“I want to reach that 100-tackle goal and get back to six forced fumbles this season,” Jackson said.
While personal milestones would be rewarding, Jackson’s biggest objective centers on the success of the Golden Buffaloes. He hopes Southeast can make a deep postseason run and add to the school’s football legacy.
“As a team, I want to bring a plaque home and get in the trophy case and mark the school forever,” Jackson said.
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