In an exciting move for the Missouri football program, head coach Eli Drinkwitz has named nine team captains for the 2025 season, marking a record under his leadership. The lineup includes four offensive players, four defensive players, and special teams representative Logan Muckey.
Reflecting on last season, Drinkwitz expressed regret over delaying the announcement of team captains until just 12 days before the season opener against Central Arkansas. "We realized we needed to be more proactive in establishing leadership," Drinkwitz shared. This year, he's taken a different approach by announcing captains ahead of spring practice.
Among the captains are offensive linemen Cayden Green and Dom Giudice, along with linebacker Nicholas Rodriguez. Green returns as a captain after starting 11 games at left tackle last year.
Giudice, a seasoned sixth-year senior, started all 13 games at left guard and is set to transition to center in 2026. Rodriguez, who played in all 13 games with three starts, leads the team in returning tackles with 62 from last season.
"These guys have consistently played at a high level and embody the standards we set," Drinkwitz noted. "They're setting the bar for everyone else."
Drinkwitz also praised other players who have shown leadership during offseason workouts. On defense, EDGE defender Darris Smith, defensive end Langden Kitchen, and linebacker Jeremiah Beasley have stood out with their dedication. Offensively, linemen Tristan Wilson and Curtis Peagler, tight ends Brett Norfleet and Jordon Harris, and running backs Ahmad Hardy and Jamal Roberts have emerged as leaders.
"These players understand what it means to be a Missouri Tiger and consistently meet our expectations," Drinkwitz commented.
Special mention went to Blake Craig, who is recovering from an ACL injury suffered in the season opener last August. Before his injury, Craig was a reliable kicker, making 24-of-34 field goals, including six from beyond 50 yards, and converting 36-of-37 extra points.
While he’ll be limited in spring, he's expected to be fully ready by fall camp. "Blake's resilience and approach serve as a model for leadership," Drinkwitz added.
The final team captains for the 2026 season will be determined by a team vote during fall camp, continuing a tradition of player-driven leadership selection.