Conference USA will hold its 2026 Football Kickoff and Media Days on July 20-21 at Texas Live! Arena in Arlington, Texas. FIU will be represented by Head Coach Willie Simmons, Quarterback JJ Kohl, and Defensive Back Shamir Sterlin. The event will feature a live ESPN+ show on July 20, hosted by Mike Corey, followed by press conferences and media sessions on July 21. Under Simmons, FIU has shown promise with a historic bowl appearance and a four-game winning streak. Kohl, a 6-7 transfer quarterback from App State, and Sterlin, an All-Freshman talent, will be key figures as the team sets its sights on success in 2026.

By the Numbers
  • JJ Kohl passed for 1,465 yards and 12 touchdowns, completing 61.6% of his attempts in 2025.
  • Shamir Sterlin recorded 65 tackles, two interceptions, and four pass breakups in 2025.
State of Play
  • July 20-21, 2026, will see CUSA’s Football Kickoff and Media Days at Texas Live!
  • FIU is buoyed by a successful 2025 season, aiming to build momentum for the upcoming season.
What's Next

As the event approaches, specific details about the live ESPN+ show airing times will be announced, alongside a full list of participants from all CUSA institutions. The expectations will be high for FIU as they look to leverage their recent achievements into a competitive season.

Bottom Line

Head Coach Willie Simmons and his squad are poised for a significant 2026 season, supported by standout talents like Kohl and Sterlin. Their performance at the kickoff event will set the tone for FIU's ambitions going forward.