Three Hornets sign on National Signing Day

Feb. 7—HUNTSVILLE — Three members of Huntsville's football program officially signed their National Letter of Intent to continue their athletic and academic careers.

Seniors Bryan Redd, JT Kroll and Daniel Cruz all signed on Feb. 7 for their intent to continue their football careers.

Redd signed with Bethany College, Kroll signed with Piney Woods rival Stephen F. Austin and Cruz to Navarro College.

"The biggest thing is they are making decisions and commitments to people. At the next level, sometimes people lose sight of what the name of the place is. Find a place that fits for you and go play, if you want to play," Huntsville athletic director and head football coach Rodney Southern said. "Bryan Redd is a perfect example of that. It's a small NAIA school but he got a scholarship. It's good for our program to keep putting guys out."

Bryan Redd — TE — Bethany College

Redd saw his role come to fruition this season for the Hornets. Entering the year it was uncertain what position he would play as he is built to be a linebacker, but he could also be a tight end.

It was also Redd's first full year to play on the varsity level.

"It feels great and I never thought I would be signing to play college football," Redd said. "It's a blessing from God to be playing at the next level. I got a chance thanks to coach Hilger, if it weren't for him, I wouldn't have been on the field."

This season, Huntsville wanted to get its tight ends more involved and he was a part of that. Redd became a key part of the blocking game for the Hornets and will be able to translate that to the next level.

And that is why Redd decided to sign with Bethany head coach Mike Grossner.

"The coaching staff was very welcoming and they understood the situation. Certain players have to be in certain positions at the right times. They offered me the most opportunity and I felt like it was the best spot for me," Redd said.

Daniel Cruz — OL — Navarro

Like Redd, Daniel Cruz was a sub-varsity player until this season. Huntsville had to replace its entire offensive line. With a complete rebuild, Cruz got his opportunity to play and make a name for himself like his brother did before him.

Now, Cruz will head to Corsicana for a year at Navarro with an opportunity to move on after one year.

"Hopefully I do better than what I am expected to do," Cruz said. "Hopefully I can go to a bigger school."

During Southern's speech about Cruz, he mentioned that he may have said 20 words to each other over four years. And that is the plan for Cruz to attack the next level.

"Keep quiet and do your work," Cruz said

JT Kroll — OL — SFA

Kroll was the lone member of this signing squad that played multiple seasons on the varsity squad. In his junior year, Kroll was on the defensive line. One of his most memorable moments came in the Hornets season finale against Richmond Randle.

Kroll had a fumble recovery that set up the Hornets' go-ahead touchdown and secured their playoff spot. But things changed over the summer.

The Hornets had to redo its offensive line and needed help from Kroll. Going into the senior year, Kroll lost the glamor of making plays, becoming a protector of the quarterback and creating holes for the run game.

The move got Stephen F. Austin looking at him and gave him a chance to play Division I football.

"It's a blessing and it shows me how supportive my friends and family are," Kroll said. "Growing up in Huntsville, everybody wants to be a Bearkat. Now, going to be a Lumberjack it's fun to see the love and support."

Kroll brings a unique spot to the Lumberjacks. While he played O-line this season, he may see an opportunity to switch back to the defensive side of the ball once he gets into workouts. The ability to play two positions makes him a valuable asset.

"I'm not sure where I'll be playing yet, but when I get my opportunities I need to take them," Kroll said. "I can't let other things get in the way of that."

These guys were a part of Huntsville's longest playoff run since 2018 as the Hornets came up short in a quest for a state title. While they will be leaving the program, they will leave a lasting imprint on the program for years to come.