Here’s how the Missouri Tigers’ football offense is shaping up at spring practice
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Mizzou returns Roberts and Norfleet to lead its 2026 offense
- OC Chip Lindsey likely will feature the returning playmakers in 2026
- Transfer Cayden Lee adds receiver and punt-return depth to Mizzou
The Mizzou offense continues to develop its transfers and new football coaches through early morning spring practices.
Quarterback Austin Simmons has picked his new number in (hopefully) lucky No. 13. But while the newcomers are stealing the majority of the headlines, it's the returning talent that is guiding the way.
Jamal Roberts is returning for his fourth season in a Tigers uniform, bringing back his connection with Ahmad Hardy. The duo led a Mizzou run game that averaged 228.3 yards per game, ranking eighth in the nation.
While Roberts had the opportunity to enter the NFL Draft or transfer to another program in search of more touches, his decision to stay was clear from the start.
"I started a legacy here," Roberts said. "I built my foundation here, and I just want to finish it. … I wanted to stay home."
Another skill player returning for his senior season is tight end Brett Norfleet. Currently, Norfleet is wearing a noncontact jersey, stemming from a shoulder injury last fall against Vanderbilt. He had surgery back in December to help aid the recovery process. This is the third injury that Norfleet has suffered at Mizzou, but he continues to work as his fourth collegiate season draws closer.
"Right now, I'm off to the side, watching and helping out the other tight ends," Norfleet said. "But (I'm) just (excited) to get out there with the guys and hit somebody."
New offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey is likely to use both returners as part of his 2026 group of playmakers. The two players were dynamic parts of the Tigers' offense, combining for 11 touchdowns in 2025.
"Just guys who are going to step up and lead in rough moments," Roberts said.
A transfer who could be added to the playmaker list is wide receiver Cayden Lee. The former Ole Miss Rebel was voted by The Missourian's Quentin Corpuel as the best offensive player from the transfer portal additions this offseason. Lee has also received his new number, choosing No. 19; his old number at Ole Miss and back at Kennesaw Mountain High School.
Lee has been seen taking reps with the receivers while also working through special teams reps as a punt returner. The two groups have a large overlap, with other players like Donovan Olugbode, Shaun Terry II and Caleb Goodie seen fielding faux punts at the outdoor practice facility.
Whether on offense or through special teams, the Tigers' skill players can create explosive opportunities for a team that looks to push the ball down the field in 2026.
"All of our punt returners to this point … have done a really good job," new special teams coordinator John Papuchis said. "I'm excited about that group, I think whoever it ends up being is going to be a weapon for us and have a chance to be a game changer."
Copyright 2026 Columbia Missourian
This story was originally published March 11, 2026 at 12:57 PM with the headline "Here’s how the Missouri Tigers’ football offense is shaping up at spring practice."