NORTHFIELD, Vt. - Entering his third season at the helm, Norwich University head football coach Bill Russell has announced the team captains for the 2026 campaign, as graduate student tight end Declan Lay (Brunswick, Maine), senior defensive lineman John Dixner (Fenton, Mich.), senior defensive back Corey Stone (Piscataway, N.J.), junior quarterback Landon Beecher (Holliston, Mass.), and junior running back Will Patenaude (Goffstown, N.H.) have been selected to lead the Cadets this fall.

The group was elected by their teammates, a distinction that reflects both individual growth and the collective trust earned within the locker room.

"I am thrilled for the five young men who have been elected captain by their teammates," Russell said.  "It's been a joy to watch them on their individual leadership journeys, and it speaks volumes about the progress they have made to be selected by their peers as the leaders of our program this coming season."

Lay returns for his graduate season after appearing in eight games a year ago, totaling seven receptions for 59 yards from the tight end position.  His continued development has been a focal point throughout the offseason.

"Declan loves Norwich Football and is dedicated to the mission of building us back to a championship-level program," Russell added.  "He has had a great offseason and was selected as our Most Improved Player this spring."

Dixner anchors the defensive front after a productive junior campaign that saw him record 22 total tackles, including 3.5 tackles for loss and a sack, while also making an impact on special teams with two blocked kicks.

"John is a hard worker and one of our strongest players," Russell said.  "He sets a great example for his teammates and is well known and respected across campus."

Stone has been a consistent presence in the defensive backfield and delivered a standout 2025 season, totaling 69 tackles, two forced fumbles, and an interception.

"Corey came to us from a strong high school program and has always had a drive to win," Russell said.  "He's grown and matured over his career, and when he talks, his teammates listen."

Beecher steps into a leadership role after an injury-shortened 2025 season in which he completed 60 percent of his passes and threw six touchdowns, showing promise at the quarterback position.

"Landon stepped up when needed last year and was on the way to a really good season before being injured," Russell said.  "He set the tone for the offseason with his relentless work in rehab, and I'm looking forward to watching his continued development."

Patenaude rounds out the group following a strong 2025 season as part of Norwich's running back rotation, rushing for 300 yards and three touchdowns while contributing across multiple phases.

"Will is someone I would point to for doing everything the right way," Russell said.  "He gives maximum effort at practice, is relentless in the weight room, and excels academically.  He sets the bar for everyone around him."

The Cadets will open the 2026 season under the lights on Friday, Sept. 4, hosting St. Lawrence University in the annual Hoffman Cup matchup.