When: Saturday, March 28th, 9 PM ET

Where: Findlay Toyota Center, (Prescott, AZ)

Watch: Game will be broadcast on Overnght

After an eventful offseason full of new arrivals and departures, the Jacksonville Sharks enter the new season hungry for a win vs. the Northern Arizona Wranglers this Saturday. The Sharks are looking to begin 2026 on a strong note.

Jacksonville enters the 2026 season with heightened expectations after an active offseason focused on strengthening both sides of the ball. With the addition of key playmakers and valuable depth pieces, the Sharks are positioned to make a stronger push toward a deep IFL playoff run. 

Meanwhile, the Northern Arizona Wranglers look to reestablish themselves as a force in the Western Conference while defending their home field. After capturing an IFL championship in 2022, Northern Arizona enters 2026 motivated to return to contender status and protect their turf.

Players to watch

Marquel Wade (WR, JAX) - A proven winner with the Sharks, Wade returns to the Tank after playing key roles on two championship teams in 2019 and 2023. His versatility and explosiveness make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses, capable of impacting the game in a variety of ways. Expect Wade to be a frequent target in the passing game and a major factor on special teams, where his playmaking ability can quickly shift momentum.

Ramone Atkins (QB, NAZ) - Atkins resigned with the Wranglers after an excellent 2025 campaign that saw him accrue more than 1,500 passing yards and 25 passing touchdowns, while adding 270 rushing yards and 11 scores on the ground. His combination of great accuracy and agility on the ground make him tough for opposing defenses to stop, his prior IFL experience should serve him well when he is forced to make quick decisions under pressure.

James Cahoon (QB, JAX) - James Cahoon makes his Sharks debut. Last season, Cahoon played his rookie campaign with the Iowa Barnstormers, putting together an impressive IFL All-Rookie campaign. He tallied 2,888 passing yards and 56 passing TDs, as well as 127 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. His arm strength and accuracy make him a dynamic weapon in the Sharks offense, giving Jacksonville a proven playmaker under center who can stretch the field and keep defenses on their heels every snap. Only time will tell how he'll adjust to head coach Jason Gibson's offensive scheme, but the Sharks coaching staff enters the season excited for how his talent could take the offense to the next level.

Official Away Game Watch Party

Kickoff is at 9:00 PM ET, and fans are encouraged to tune in on Overnght or join the Sharks for the Official Away Game Watch Party at Players Locker Room.

Watch Party Specials Include:
• Wear & Save: Wear Sharks gear and your second drink is on PLR (equal value)
• $6 Signature Sharks Cocktails — Shark Tooth, Shark Bite, Shark Attack
• $2 Sharks Shots — Red Jello Shots
• Sharks Bundle: Large 2-topping pizza + pitcher of domestic draft — $24.99
• Nacho Stack: $2 off
• Beverage Value: $2 off beer buckets & pitchers
• Halftime Special: $3 boiled peanuts (regular or Cajun)

Offers not valid with other promotions or happy hour specials.

The Sharks begin their 2026 campaign on the road, but fans can still bring the energy and kick off the season together. A new season starts Saturday night — and the Sharks are ready to make a statement.  

About the Jacksonville Sharks

The Jacksonville Sharks are members of the Indoor Football League (IFL). The 4X Champions play all their home games on True Vet Field at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena. Sharks Season tickets for the 2026 season are now available. To become a Shark Nation member or for more information please call (904) 621-0700 or visit https://www.jaxsharks.com/shark-nation-memberships. Follow the Sharks on Facebook at facebook.com/jaxsharks and on Twitter and Instagram @jaxsharks, as well as the Attack Dance Team at facebook.com/sharkattackdance and Chum at facebook.com/chumsharks.