There are still some question marks on defense for the Knoxville Football Squad. The Panthers graduated several off of a defense that for the most part, kept the Panthers in games. Coach Matt Dunkin tells KNIA/KRLS Sports among the returners are Christian Braida, who is trying out a new position, and All-District Defensive Lineman David Gorskikh. Dunkin says a few other experienced on defense will return as well.

Dunkin: “Cael Irving has done a nice job stepping in there. Christian Braida is trying out a new position, and David Goskikh is a returning all-district lineman so we’re happy to have him back, and we’re seeing what the younger guys are doing and how they’ll fit in.”

Kendall was having a great season with 15 tackles and an interception return for a touchdown against South Tama was on his resume, but a knee injury put the brakes on his season. He is fully healed and ready to go for 2024. Knoxville will have an inter-squad scrimmage at Randy Wilson Track during Meet the Panthers Night this Friday. Knoxville week one opener will be against Boone.