Tennessee State University head football coach Reggie Barlow announced on Apr. 30 the addition of two junior college transfers to the Tigers’ roster for the upcoming 2026 season.
The signings of defensive lineman Kennland Lyons and offensive lineman Augustus Thuston are intended to strengthen both sides of the line as Tennessee State prepares for its next campaign.
Lyons, a defensive tackle from North Panola High School, is listed at 6-foot-4 and 378 pounds. He recorded 25 tackles during the previous season, including a season-high eight tackles in one game and several games with three or more tackles. “Keenland Lyons is a defensive tackle out of Mississippi, a big, stout guy that we think will add value to our defensive line,” Barlow said. “We’ve got some good players up front, but Keniland is the type of player that will require four hands on him. He’s a 300-plus pound guy with great size, and we’re looking forward to him coming in and being part of what we’ve got going.” Lyons also registered a sack against Jones College last year.
Thuston joins from Chanute, Kansas as an offensive lineman standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 315 pounds. As a redshirt freshman last season, he played in four games as part of an offense that averaged over 377 yards per game. “Augustus is a really good offensive lineman, and that’s a position we needed with us losing JuJu [Veguer Jean-Jumeau],” Barlow said. “He’s a big guy, around 6-5 and 300 pounds, with great feet and a strong punch. He’s a smart player and comes across as a leader — someone who can come in and help lead that group. We’re excited about him and what he brings to our program.”
The team aims to build depth on both lines by bringing in experienced players like Lyons and Thuston ahead of the new season.
Barlow said these additions are expected to contribute immediately as Tennessee State continues preparations for its upcoming schedule.
