Jefferson County, one of Florida's most storied high school football programs, will not take the field this fall after school officials canceled the Tigers' 2026 season because of low player participation.
The decision comes after fewer than 10 high school players attended a recent football practice, first reported by WCTV.
Athletic Director Eddie Metcalf told the Tallahassee Democrat that the school planned to make a final determination on the season this month.
While the varsity program will be sidelined this year, Jefferson County's middle school football team will continue its season. More than 20 players have joined the middle school roster, providing hope for the future of the program.
Jefferson County has long been regarded as a football powerhouse, winning six state championships in program history. The Tigers last captured a state title in 2011.
The program has struggled in recent years. Jefferson County finished 2-9 last season under first-year coach Eric Bright and was scheduled to open the 2026 season against Cottondale on Aug. 14.
The cancellation marks a significant setback for one of the state's tradition-rich programs, but school officials will look to the growing middle school participation as a foundation for rebuilding the Tigers' football future.
Peter Holland Jr. covers Florida State athletics and Big Bend Preps for the Tallahassee Democrat. If you like to pitch a story on a high school athlete, don't hesitate to get in touch with him via email at PHolland@Gannett.com or on X @_Da_pistol.
This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Low numbers force Jefferson County football to end 2026 season
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