DENTON, Texas — The challenge facing North Texas in 2026 is unlike any the program has encountered in recent years.
After reaching the American Athletic Conference Championship Game in 2025, the Mean Green enter a new era following the departure of head coach Eric Morris, who left for Oklahoma State and was followed by several assistant coaches and key players. In his place is former West Virginia head coach Neal Brown, who inherits a program coming off one of the most successful seasons in school history but one that must replace nearly every major contributor.
Brown’s first task is rebuilding a roster that was transformed through the transfer portal. While the turnover is significant, North Texas believes it has added enough experienced talent to remain competitive in the AAC rather than begin a lengthy rebuilding process.
Quarterback Tayven Jackson is expected to lead the offense after arriving with Power Four experience, while former West Virginia running back Jahiem White gives the Mean Green an explosive playmaker capable of carrying the offense. Brown is also counting on a deep group of transfer receivers and a rebuilt offensive line to maintain the offensive success that has become North Texas’ identity over the past three seasons.
The biggest question, however, is chemistry.
With a new coaching staff, new schemes and a roster filled with transfers, how quickly the Mean Green come together could determine whether they remain in the conference championship conversation. Brown has emphasized a more balanced approach that complements an offense expected to remain productive while placing greater importance on improving defensively.
The schedule won’t provide much time to adjust. Early matchups against quality non conference opponents will test the roster before the AAC race begins, and road games against conference contenders will likely determine North Texas’ postseason outlook.
A return to the conference championship game may be a difficult task given the amount of turnover, but dismissing the Mean Green would be a mistake. Brown has assembled an experienced transfer class, and if the offense finds its rhythm early while the defense continues to improve, North Texas has enough talent to remain in the upper half of the AAC.
Prediction: North Texas finishes in the top four of the American Athletic Conference, earns another bowl berth and has an outside chance of returning to the AAC Championship Game if the rebuilt roster develops quickly.
