After a dominant opening defensive stand, the Knights’ senior linebacker emerges as a Big 12 powerhouse poised to anchor a unit with championship aspirations and game-changing potential.

Explosive wideout Josh Derry joins defensive anchors RJ Jackson Jr. and Lewis Carter as rising stars poised to parlay breakout Big 12 performances into professional football careers.

Rising star Lewis Carter emerges as the Knights' vocal defensive leader, earning prestigious recognition following a breakout season highlighted by 92 tackles and elite conference efficiency grades.

With 20 days to go until the 2026 UCF football season kicks off, learn more about the players wearing the Knights' No. 20 jerseys: linebacker Lewis Carter and running back Kaj Baker.

UCF linebacker Lewis Carter speaks with the media following the Knights' first practice of preseason camp.

The eighth in a position-by-position preview of the UCF football team heading into fall camp: TODAY: LINEBACKERS What to expect The return of Lewis Carter gives the Knights not only their leading tackler from last season back but also a solid foundation for the linebacker unit. Carter finished with a team-high 92 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, a quarterback hurry and two forced ...