SMU football opened spring practice with a bigger, deeper roster, while a new NIL platform aims to connect Mustang fans, players and donors in a new way.
SMU football is back on the field, but spring practice isn’t the only thing turning heads around the Mustangs right now.
As Rhett Lashlee’s program pushes through the early part of spring ball, a separate development off the field is adding even more energy around SMU athletics.
A new NIL platform, Run Peruna Run, has officially launched to create direct fan support, premium content and new experiences centered on Mustang athletes. For a program trying to build staying power in the ACC and beyond, the timing feels significant.
That announcement came as SMU insiders also offered a strong early review of the 2026 roster, especially from a physical standpoint.
The first thing standing out this spring is size. Across both lines of scrimmage and in the secondary, SMU looks more like a complete Power Four roster than ever before.
It’s not just the front-line players carrying the frame and athleticism coaches want. The second and third groups appear bigger and more ready than in previous years.
Several players have already created buzz. Wide receiver Jalen Hale has drawn attention for his explosiveness and route work, while young pass-catchers like Aljour Miles, Jakai Anderson and Isaiah Robertson are helping make receiver one of the most competitive positions on the roster.
In the backfield, Kendrick Raphael looks like a player who could make an immediate impact, and Jaylen Moses has flashed on the defensive side.
Up front, SMU appears solid on the right side of the offensive line with Josh Bates, Addison Nichols and PJ Williams.
The left side remains one of the most important spring storylines, with Andrew Chamblee and Dramodd Odoms battling at left tackle and multiple options working at left guard.
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Put it all together, and there’s real momentum building around the Mustangs.
Spring practice has reinforced the idea that SMU’s roster is getting stronger, while the new NIL initiative signals that support around the program is growing just as fast.
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