REPORT: CONFERENCE USA EXPECTED TO ADD DELAWARE Blue Hens FOR 25-26 SEASON

'Delaware Stadium' Photo Credit: Jimmy Emerson DVM via Flickr

ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported this morning that Conference USA is looking to add the Delaware Blue Hens as full members starting in the 2025-2026 season. Neither Delaware nor Conference USA have released any information confirming nor denying this report.

If Delaware becomes a member in 2025-2026, Conference USA will then have 11 member schools. Kennesaw State is set to join Conference USA starting in the 2024 season for all sports.

Delaware, a perennial power in the FCS ranks, takes on No. 2 Montana on Saturday in the second round of the FCS playoffs.

The Blue Hens have a storied history in their football program. Legendary head coach Tubby Raymond led Delaware from 1966 until 2001 and left with a record of 300-119-3. Raymond is credited with perfecting the Wing T offense.

Current Sam Houston State head coach KC Keeler coached Delaware from 2002-2012, amassing a record of 86-52. Keeler led the Blue Hens to three 1-AA/FCS national championship games, winning the championship in 2003.

Notable NFL players who played at Delaware include Super Bowl winners Joe Flacco, Jamin Elliott and Gino Gradkowski. Pro Bowler Rich Gannon, who started his career as a punter, played quarterback at Delaware. Current Las Vegas Raiders DL Bilal Nichols is a Delaware alum as well.

It is doubtful that Conference USA is done with expansion as most conferences like to have an even number of member schools. So be on the lookout for another addition to be made to the conference for the 2025-2026 season.