Kellen Nesbitt

FOR THE FIRST TIME in more than three decades, Truman football is back where many alumni remember it belonging.

The 2025 season marked a turning point for the program, as the Bulldogs returned to the NCAA Division II Playoffs for the first time since 1994. An 8-4 campaign, highlighted by a 7-1 conference record and a second-place finish in the Great Lakes Valley Conference, signaled more than just a successful season. It marked the reestablishment of a program standard.

The postseason result, a loss to nationally ranked Indianapolis in the opening round, does not define what this team accomplished. The significance lies in the breakthrough itself. For a program that had spent decades working back toward national relevance, 2025 delivered that moment.

Under GLVC Coach of the Year Kellen Nesbitt, the Bulldogs developed into one of the most complete teams in the conference. Truman finished second in scoring offense in the GLVC at 36.7 points per game and third in scoring defense, allowing just 22.5. The identity was clear. A physical, disciplined team built around a dominant rushing attack that led the league with more than 2,200 yards.

Denim Cook

That production was supported by impact players across the roster. Running back Denim Cook led the conference with 905 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Quarterback Dylan Hair directed one of the league’s most efficient offenses. Defensively, Truman consistently created disruption and controlled the line of scrimmage.

The depth of the roster showed up in postseason recognition as well. Fifteen Bulldogs earned All-GLVC honors, including seven first-team selections, reflecting one of the strongest collective performances in recent program history.

More important than any single statistic is what this team represents. This was not a one-year surge. It was a team with a defined identity, experienced leadership and a structure built for sustained success.