Tulane University’s football program is back in the spotlight. Jaylin Lucas and Chris Rodgers have both landed spots on the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 Team.
This isn’t just about their personal achievements—it also says a lot about how Tulane football is starting to turn heads nationally. The East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 Team is a big deal for NFL scouts since it gives them a sneak peek at players who might break out in the 2027 East-West Shrine Bowl and the 2027 NFL Draft.
Jaylin Lucas: A Dynamic Playmaker
Jaylin Lucas, a redshirt senior running back and return specialist, has wasted no time making an impact since transferring to Tulane from Florida State. Before that, he played two seasons at Indiana, where he picked up First-Team All-American honors and was named the Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year in 2022.
He racked up 22 kick returns for 591 yards and two touchdowns that season. In 2023, he kept up the momentum with 22 returns for 572 yards and another touchdown before heading to Tulane.
Career Achievements
Lucas has put together some eye-popping stats in college:
- 55 kick returns: 1,420 yards and three touchdowns
- 145 rushing attempts: 719 yards and four touchdowns
- 64 receptions: 456 yards and two touchdowns
He’s versatile, explosive, and honestly just fun to watch. Phil Steele named him a Third-Team Preseason All-American, and Athlon gave him a First-Team All-Conference nod for the preseason.
Chris Rodgers: A Defensive Powerhouse
Senior linebacker Chris Rodgers has been a rock for Tulane’s defense, starting every game last season—all 14 of them. He was second on the team with 80 tackles, proving he’s always around the ball.
Rodgers also posted seven tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, an interception, a pass breakup, and a forced fumble. Not bad for a guy who just quietly gets the job done, right?
Recognitions and Impact
His work hasn’t gone unnoticed. Phil Steele put him on the First-Team Preseason All-American list, and Athlon slotted him Second-Team Preseason All-Conference.
Rodgers brings leadership and a steady presence to the Green Wave defense. If you’re looking for someone to keep an eye on, he’s it.
The Significance of the East-West Shrine Bowl
The East-West Shrine Bowl is set for February 4, 2027, at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. It’s a rare chance for players like Lucas and Rodgers to be coached by NFL staff in an NFL facility.
They’ll get access to top-notch resources and exposure. The game will air nationally on NFL Network, and proceeds help out Shriners Children’s Hospitals.
Showcase for NFL Scouts
This 1000 Team list is a crucial showcase for NFL scouts. It highlights about 1,000 all-star game-eligible players—some will get drafted, some will sign after, and some might get rookie mini-camp invites.
It’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the scouting process works, and it puts a spotlight on rising talent for scouts and fans alike.
Tulane Football’s Rising Prominence
Seeing Lucas and Rodgers get recognized says a lot about Tulane’s upward trajectory. The Green Wave finished the 2025 season ranked No. 18 in both the AP and USA Today Coaches Polls.
That’s only the second time in four years, the third since 1998, and the fourth since 1970 that Tulane has ended a season ranked. Not too shabby. The American Conference Championship win capped it off, giving them their second conference title in four years.
Historic Achievements
The 2025 season was one for the books. Tulane made its first-ever playoff appearance, facing Ole Miss.
They were the first Louisiana team to make the College Football Playoff in the new 12-team format, qualifying as the fourth-highest ranked conference champ. Eleven wins in 14 games, including two against Power 4 teams—that hadn’t happened since 1988.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season
Tulane’s momentum doesn’t look like it’s fading. The team is prepping for 2026 after going 43-13 over the past four seasons.
Returning All-Conference players this year include:
- Jack Tchienchou: Safety – 1st team
- TJ Smith: Return specialist – 3rd team
- Jason Arredondo: Designated snapper – 3rd team
The 2026 schedule is packed with tough matchups and a few chances for Tulane to make a statement:
- Saturday, September 5 – at Duke – 2:30 p.m.
- Saturday, September 12 – vs. South Alabama – 6 p.m.
- Saturday, September 19 – at Kansas State – 11 a.m.
- Saturday, September 26 – vs. Southern Miss (Hall of Fame)
- Saturday, October 10 – at Army – 11 a.m.
- Friday, October 16 – vs. Memphis – 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, October 24 – vs. UTSA
- Saturday, October 30 – at Charlotte – 6 p.m.
- Saturday, November 7 – vs Tulsa (Homecoming)
- Saturday, November 14 – at Rice
- Saturday, November 21 – vs. North Texas
- Friday or Saturday, November 27 or November 28 – at South Florida
Get Involved and Support the Green Wave
If you want to catch the action in person, tickets for the upcoming volleyball and football seasons are available by calling 504-861-WAVE (9283), heading to TulaneTix.com, or stopping by the ticket office at the James W. Wilson Jr. Center.
And if you’re more of a social media person, you can follow Tulane football on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for all the latest updates and news. Seriously, it’s a good way to stay in the loop.
Contribute to the Green Wave Club
Giving to the Green Wave Club helps Tulane Athletics give student-athletes what they need to succeed, whether they’re on the field or in class.
Your support makes a real difference for both current and future Green Wave student-athletes. It also boosts Tulane’s edge in college athletics.
If you want to make a gift, call (504) 865-5356, email greenwaveclub@tulane.edu, or just head over to greenwaveclub.com.
Curious about Jaylin Lucas and Chris Rodgers making the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 Team? Check out the official announcement on Tulane’s website.
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