CHICAGO, Ill. (May 26, 2026) – Chicago State Football proudly welcomed its newest student athletes to campus today as incoming freshmen and transfer student-athletes officially moved into their residence halls, marking another significant milestone in the build toward the program's historic inaugural season.
The arrival of the newest Cougars represents the beginning of an exciting chapter for the program. As members of Chicago State Football's first recruiting class, these student athletes will help establish the foundation, culture, and tradition of Cougar Football while preparing to compete in the university's first football season.
"We're excited to officially welcome our newest Cougars to campus," said Head Football Coach Bobby Rome II. "Move-in day is one of the biggest milestones in building our program because it brings our team together. Whether they're freshmen beginning their college careers or transfers bringing valuable experience, each student-athlete has an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy as part of Chicago State Football's inaugural team."
Throughout the summer, the newcomers will participate in orientation activities, academic programming, strength and conditioning, position meetings, and team-building exercises as they transition into life at Chicago State University. They will join returning student-athletes in preparing for preseason camp and the program's first season of competition.
The arrival of the new student athletes continues the momentum surrounding Chicago State Football following the hiring of the inaugural coaching staff, the announcement of the program's first recruiting class, and the continued growth of excitement leading up to kickoff.
"Our coaching staff has recruited outstanding young men who believe in our vision and are committed to building something special," Rome said. "Today is about welcoming them to the Cougar family. We look forward to helping them grow as students, athletes, and leaders while representing Chicago State University with pride."
The Cougars will continue summer workouts throughout the coming months before opening preseason camp in preparation for the historic season opener.
Chicago State Football will make history on
August 29, 2026, when the Cougars host Roosevelt University in the first football game in university history.
Be Part of History
Season tickets are available now. Fans can purchase tickets and find the latest football news, schedules, rosters, and additional information by visiting
GoCSUCougars.com.
#GoCougars | #CSUFootball | #TheTimeIsNow
