Air Force enters 2026 with unusually strong defensive depth

Air Force returns 11 defenders with prior starting experience, 10 of 11 secondary starters, and every 2025 defensive snapper. Mikhail Seiken is fully recovered from his second knee injury and remains with the team, while Kyle Chen has returned to secondary competition after knee surgery and a 12-month pause; coaches still must settle rotations, starting roles, and leadership during the defensive-coordinator transition.