RICHMOND – The CAA released its 2026 preseason poll Wednesday morning, and while Rhode Island dominated the headlines as the near unanimous pick to win the league, the story in North Carolina centers on how Elon, Campbell, and North Carolina A&T stack up entering a pivotal season for all three programs.

Elon earned 115 points and a third-place finish, landing just behind Monmouth and well ahead of the middle of the pack. It’s the Phoenix’s strongest preseason position since joining the CAA, and it reflects the program’s consistency – five straight seasons finishing .500 or better in conference play. The league’s coaches clearly respect what returns in 2026:

• RB Jimmyll Williams (Durham): a preseason All-CAA selection after rushing for 673 yards last season.  
• FB/HB Dylan Magazu: one of the few fullbacks in the league capable of impacting games as both a blocker and short-yardage option.  
• WR Landyn Backey: an honorable mention pick who gives Elon a reliable downfield threat.  
• LB Brodie Carroll: a preseason All-CAA linebacker coming off a 104‑tackle season.  
• S Tony Hart III: another preseason selection and one of the league’s most active safeties.

Elon’s defensive core, Carroll, Hart, and DL Dillon Pardue (honorable mention), gives the Phoenix one of the most stable units in the conference. If the offense takes even a modest step forward, Elon has a legitimate shot to finish in the top three again.

Campbell landed 56 points, good for eighth place. It’s a slight dip from last year’s expectations, but the Camels have pieces that could outperform their ranking. The biggest headline is LB DaVonyae Pettis, who earned honorable mention after a strong 2025 season. Campbell’s defense has been young for two straight years; now it’s finally experienced. Offensively, the Camels return enough production to be competitive, but the poll reflects the uncertainty around how quickly the unit will settle under new leadership and a tougher schedule. Campbell has hovered around the middle of the CAA since joining. This year’s roster suggests they could climb; but they’ll need early-season consistency to do it.

North Carolina A&T was picked 12th with 28 points, ahead of only Hampton. It’s a low projection, but not surprising given the Aggies’ transition struggles since joining the CAA. Still, there are bright spots:

• OL Andrew Dorsey: honorable mention and one of the league’s most experienced interior linemen.  
• PR Elijah Kennedy (High Point): preseason All-CAA punt returner and one of the most explosive special teams players in the conference.

The Aggies’ challenge is depth. They’ve recruited well, but the roster is still young in key spots. If the offense stabilizes and the defense can avoid the big-play issues that plagued 2025, A&T has enough talent to outperform a 12th-place prediction.

Rhode Island received 12 of 13 possible first-place votes, returning 15 starters from a team that went 11‑3 and won the league outright last season. Senior QB Devin Farrell, the preseason Offensive Player of the Year, headlines an offense loaded with All‑CAA talent. Monmouth, under new head coach Jeff Gallo, sits second and brings back the core of last year’s No. 1 offense in FCS. Elon is the highest-ranked NC team, followed by Campbell and A&T.

North Carolina was well represented across the league’s preseason honors:

• Jimmyll Williams (Elon) RB, Durham
• Dylan Magazu (Elon) FB/HB
• Tim Hogan (Elon) OL, Raleigh
• Tony Hart III (Elon) S
• Elijah Kennedy (North Carolina A&T) PR, High Point
• Mitch Summers (Sacred Heart) RB, Greensboro
• Omari Allen (Hampton) OL, Henderson
• Luke Barnes (Elon) PK, Greensboro

CHARLOTTE – The air in North Carolina is already thick with anticipation, not just with the summer humidity, but with the palpable excitement for the upcoming high school football season.  As anticipation builds for the 2025 high school football season, the stage is set for another year of thrilling rivalries, breakout performances, and the relentless pursuit of state championships. Here at Carolina Gridiron, we're ready to ignite the excitement with our annual Preseason All-Gridiron Team, showcasing the unparalleled talent flourishing across the Old North State.

Offensive Architects: The Commanders and Playmakers

Leading our All-Gridiron offense is the electrifying Faizon Brandon from Grimsley. Entering his senior year, Brandon is widely recognized as one of the nation's premier dual-threat quarterbacks. His previous seasons have been nothing short of spectacular, consistently delivering over 2,800 passing yards and over 30 touchdowns through the air, complemented by significant rushing yardage and multiple scores on the ground. His ability to extend plays, dissect defenses with his arm, and escape pressure with his legs makes him a nightmare for opposing coordinators and the undeniable engine of his team.

In the backfield, we feature a dynamic duo built for power and versatility. Jayson Franklin of Seventy-First brings a potent combination of hard-nosed running and surprising agility. He's a player who can grind out tough yards between the tackles but also has the burst to hit the perimeter and turn a modest gain into an explosive play. Joining him is Southeast Raleigh's Christian Freeman, a rising junior who has already proven his mettle. Freeman's breakaway speed and vision allowed him to amass impressive rushing totals last season, and his ability to contribute in the passing game adds another dimension to his arsenal, making him a true all-purpose back.

The receiving corps for this All-Gridiron squad is stacked with game-changers, each bringing a unique set of skills to the field. Myers Park's Brody Keefe stands out with his elite route-running and reliable hands, consistently creating separation and hauling in contested catches. His big-play ability makes him a constant threat downfield. Providence Day’s Gordon Sellars is another top-tier receiver whose precise footwork and ability to navigate tight windows make him a dependable target in crucial situations. Rounding out this formidable trio is Tyran Evans from Hough, a receiver whose explosive bursts and knack for finding the end zone have made him a prolific scoring threat. All three wideouts possess the talent to shift momentum on any given snap.

At tight end, the choice was clear: Kendre Harrison of Reidsville. A truly unique talent, Harrison combines the size of an offensive lineman with the agility and hands of a wide receiver. As a senior, he's already demonstrated his ability to be a dominant force, consistently racking up significant receiving yards and posing a matchup nightmare for linebackers and defensive backs alike. His background as a multi-sport athlete underscores his exceptional coordination and athleticism, making him an invaluable asset in both the passing and running games.

No offense can truly shine without a dominant offensive line, and our All-Gridiron unit is built on a foundation of strength and technical prowess. Pine Forest’s Donovan Johnson brings immense power and mass to the interior, capable of moving defensive fronts with ease. South Garner’s Ekene Ogboko is a highly athletic and rugged lineman whose violent approach to the game sets the tone up front. J.B. Shabazz from East Forsyth is a towering tackle with excellent footwork, projecting dominance on the edge. Providence Day’s Leo Delaney consistently exhibits superior run-blocking technique, creating wide lanes for ball carriers. Completing this formidable quintet is Tyrell Simpson of North Brunswick, another massive tackle whose imposing frame provides a crucial barrier against pass rushers and a significant advantage in the run game.

Defensive Powerhouses: Disruptors and Tackling Machines

Our defensive line is a relentless force, designed to terrorize opposing quarterbacks and shut down rushing lanes. Weddington’s Aiden Harris is a high-motor lineman who consistently infiltrates the backfield, evidenced by his high tackle for loss and sack numbers from last season. Ebenezer Ewetade from South Garner is an explosive edge rusher who frequently found his way to the quarterback, recording a significant sack total as a sophomore. Clayton’s Keshawn Stancil is a disruptive presence inside, capable of shedding blocks and making plays in the backfield with his consistent tackle and TFL production. Rounding out this fearsome quartet is Myers Park’s Rodney Dunham, a quick and athletic pass rusher who makes opposing offensive linemen work overtime. This group's collective ability to generate pressure and control the line of scrimmage will be a nightmare for offenses.

The heart of our defense lies with our All-Gridiron linebackers, a unit known for their instincts, tackling ability, and versatility. Ashbrook’s Caleb Gordon is a sideline-to-sideline presence, consistently making plays against both the run and the pass. Lincolnton’s Jalaythan Mayfield, a rising junior, has already established himself as a tackling machine, racking up impressive numbers in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. Rolesville’s Jayden Griffin-Haynes brings exceptional athleticism and range, making him a key player in pass coverage and run support. Finally, Weddington’s Thomas Davis, Jr. combines physical toughness with keen awareness, consistently making impactful plays and disrupting offensive schemes. This quartet sets the tone for aggressive, intelligent defense.

Our defensive backfield is loaded with talent, featuring players who excel in coverage, support the run, and possess excellent ball skills. Myers Park’s Camdin Portis is a lockdown corner with a knack for breaking up passes and contributing effectively in run defense. Crest’s D'Various Surratt is a true ball-hawk, consistently coming away with interceptions and changing the momentum of games. Independence’s Nick Reddish brings a blend of physicality and coverage ability, capable of matching up with a variety of receivers. Anchoring this unit is Hough’s Samari Matthews, a highly-rated defensive back whose instincts and athleticism make him a formidable opponent for any wideout. This group ensures tight coverage and minimizes big plays downfield.

Versatile Aces and Special Teams Savants

The "Athlete" category highlights players whose diverse skill sets make them invaluable across multiple positions. Aiden Smalls from Clayton is a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game in various phases, whether it's on offense, defense, or special teams. West Charlotte’s KD Cotton also embodies versatility, bringing speed and agility that can be deployed effectively in numerous roles, making him a constant threat wherever he lines up. These two athletes add a crucial layer of flexibility and explosive potential to the All-Gridiron squad.

No elite team is complete without specialized talent, and our All-Gridiron special teams unit features some of the best in North Carolina. Punting duties fall to High Point Christian’s David Green, who consistently demonstrates a powerful leg and excellent hang time, flipping field position with ease. Kicking responsibilities are handled by Corvian’s Cooper Peterson, a reliable leg who has proven his consistency on both field goals and extra points. And ensuring seamless operations on every snap is Union Pines’s Taylon Tranel, a highly regarded long snapper whose precision and consistency are critical for successful special teams play.

As the 2025 high school football season approaches, the excitement is palpable. This Preseason All-Gridiron Team represents the pinnacle of high school football talent in North Carolina, a collection of remarkable student-athletes poised to deliver unforgettable performances. We congratulate each of these players on their selection and eagerly await the thrills they will bring to fields across the Old North State this fall.

In the 4A classification, defending champion Weddington claims the top spot, followed closely by Butler and Grimsley. The Warriors from Weddington are poised to repeat, building on their recent successes and adding additional power through new players on the roster. Butler and Grimsley, perennial powerhouses, are expected to provide fierce competition for the Warriors throughout the season.

Notable entries in the 4A rankings include Independence at number 5, a program with a storied history in North Carolina high school football. East Forsyth and Cardinal Gibbons, ranked 7th and 8th respectively, are also teams to watch, known for their state titles in recent years.

4A Top 15

1. Weddington

2. Butler

3. Grimsley

4. Hough

5. Independence

6. Rolesville

7. East Forsyth

8. Cardinal Gibbons

9. Cleveland

10. Hoggard

11. Mallard Creek

12. Chambers

13. Porter Ridge

14. Myers Park

15. Watauga

Moving to the 3A classification, defending champion Hickory leads the pack, with Seventy-First and Crest rounding out the top three. With much of the roster returning, the Tornadoes are primed for another standout season. Dudley, sitting at number 4, is another program with a strong football tradition that could challenge for the top spot as the season progresses.

The 3A rankings also feature some intriguing teams like West Henderson and AC Reynolds at 5th and 6th, respectively. These mountain region schools could shake up the rankings as the season unfolds.

3A Top 15

1. Hickory

2. Seventy-First

3. Crest

4. Dudley

5. West Henderson

6. AC Reynolds

7. Robinson

8. North Lincoln

9. West Charlotte

10. Havelock

11. Northern Nash

12. Southern Alamance

13. Jacksonville

14. Williams

15. Northwest Cabarrus

In the 2A classification, the Reidsville Rams claim the number one position, followed by Monroe and Forest Hills. Reidsville’s dominance in recent years makes them a favorite to maintain their top ranking. However, traditional powerhouses like Salisbury and Shelby, ranked 4th and 5th, are sure to provide stiff competition.

The 2A rankings also include some programs on the rise, such as Bunker Hill and Burns at 7th and 8th. These teams could be poised for breakout seasons that catapult them up the rankings.

2A Top 15

1. Reidsville

2. Monroe

3. Forest Hills

4. Salisbury

5. Shelby

6. Clinton

7. Bunker Hill

8. Burns

9. Randleman

10. Northeastern

11. West Lincoln

12. Brevard

13. Lincolnton

14. Whiteville

15. CS Davidson

Finally, in the 1A classification, Mount Airy stands atop the rankings, with Eastern Randolph and Tarboro close behind. Even with a new coaching staff, Mount Airy’s returning roster is setting high expectations for the Granite Bears this season. Tarboro, a consistent force in 1A football and last year’s runner-up, will be looking to climb from their 3rd place preseason ranking.

The 1A rankings also feature some intriguing small-school programs like Robbinsville and Swain County at 4th and 5th. These mountain schools have a history of punching above their weight and could make significant moves in the rankings.

1A Top 15

1. Mount Airy

2. Eastern Randolph

3. Tarboro

4. Robbinsville

5. Swain County

6. North Rowan

7. Mountain Heritage

8. Thomasville

9. Murphy

10. West Columbus

11. Hayesville

12. Wilson Prep

13. Starmount

14. East Bladen

15. Draughn

As with any preseason rankings, these are based on a mix of expectations and roster retention. The true test will come when teams take the field this fall. Fans can expect intense rivalries, upset victories, and emerging stars as the season unfolds across all four classifications.

Carolina Gridiron’s rankings provide a starting point for discussions and debates among high school football enthusiasts across the state. As teams begin their seasons this week, these rankings will serve as motivation for some and a target for others.

The diversity of schools represented in these rankings showcases the depth and quality of high school football across North Carolina. From large urban schools to small rural programs, the passion for football runs deep in the Old North State.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on these top-ranked teams to see if they can live up to their preseason billing. But in high school football, anything can happen, and that’s what makes the upcoming season so exciting for players, coaches, and fans alike.

Appalachian State Football is the favorite in the Sun Belt Conference’s East Division as they head into the upcoming season. Leading the charge is quarterback Joey Aguilar, recognized as the league’s Preseason Offensive Player of the Year. Additionally, nine Mountaineers earned spots on the preseason All-Sun Belt teams, underscoring their depth and talent.

In the East Division rankings, Appalachian State secured the top spot with 96 voting points and 12 first-place votes from the conference’s coaches. James Madison followed closely with 79 points and two first-place votes. On the other side, Texas State led the West Division with 92 points and nine first-place votes, while Troy and Louisiana also garnered significant recognition.

Offensively, wide receiver Kaedin Robinson and tight end Eli Wilson joined Aguilar on the first-team roster. Defensively, Appalachian State’s standout players included Santana Hopper on the line, Nate Johnson at outside linebacker, Jordan Favors at safety, and Ethan Johnson at cornerback—all earning first-team honors.

The Mountaineers’ depth was further highlighted by second-team selections Michael Hughes as kicker and Kanye Roberts at running back. Alongside Arkansas State and Georgia Southern, Appalachian State led all teams with the most selections across both preseason teams, securing seven first-team spots.

Joey Aguilar’s impressive stats from the previous season cemented his reputation, finishing fifth nationally with 33 touchdown passes and setting school records with 3,757 passing yards and 4,002 total offensive yards. Kaedin Robinson matched his prowess with 10 touchdown catches and a total of 905 receiving yards, the highest in Appalachian State’s FBS era. Eli Wilson also shone among Sun Belt tight ends, ranking top three in catches, yards, and touchdown receptions.

Defensively, Santana Hopper and Nate Johnson were recognized as Freshman All-Americans, with Hopper making significant contributions late in the season with 3.5 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss. Nate Johnson’s 7.5 sacks tied him for first nationally among true freshmen. Jordan Favors excelled with four interceptions, tying for the Sun Belt lead, while Ethan Johnson showcased his skills with 11 pass breakups and 56 tackles.

Michael Hughes earned second-team All-American honors after an outstanding season, converting 19 of 22 field goals, including a game-winning kick from 54 yards out. Kanye Roberts emerged as Appalachian State’s top rusher in crucial games, amassing 696 yards and seven rushing touchdowns throughout the season.

The Mountaineers open the 2024 season at home against East Tennessee State before going on the road at Clemson and East Carolina.

Curtain, a junior safety and former Grimsley standout, was named the preseason defensive player of the year. After an impressive sophomore season where the Greensboro native led the Phoenix with eighty tackles and four interceptions, including a pick-six against Wake Forest in the season opener, Curtain is poised to lead a defense that gave up less than two hundred yards passing a game last season. Curtain was joined by his teammate, wide receiver and electric kick returner Chandler Brayboy, on the all-conference team. Other North Carolina-based players on the preseason all-conference team include Campbell’s CJ Tillman, North Carolina A&T’s Karon Prunty, and Mountain Island’s Elijah Burris, who plays running back for Hampton.

Villanova, which earned a share of the 2023 CAA Championship and reached the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs last season, was voted as the 2024 preseason favorite by the league’s head coaches. The Wildcats received nine of the available 16 first-place votes and totaled 217 points, while Richmond took second with one first-place tally and 189 points.

UAlbany garnered three first-place votes and finished third with 179 points, followed by William & Mary (175 points) and Delaware (163), which also picked up three first-place nods. Elon (157) was chosen sixth, followed by New Hampshire (150), Rhode Island (142), Towson (114), Monmouth (95), Campbell (83), Hampton (62), Maine (57), North Carolina A&T (49), Bryant (46) and Stony Brook (42).

2024 CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM

(Selected by a vote of Head Coaches)

OFFENSE

Connor Watkins, Villanova | Gr. | QB | Williamsport, Pa.

Elijah Burris, Hampton | Sr. | RB | Gastonia, N.C.

Griffin Woodell, UAlbany | So. | RB | Glens Falls, N.Y.

Marcus Yarns, Delaware | Gr. | RB | Salisbury, Md.

Bronson Yoder, William & Mary | Sr. | RB | Nappanee, Ind.

Trey McDonald, William & Mary | Jr. | FB/HB | Kinnelon, N.J.

Carter Runyon, Towson | Sr. | TE | Fairfax, Va.

Chandler Brayboy, Elon | Sr. | WR | Pembroke, N.C.

Nick DeGennaro, Richmond | Sr. | WR | Old Bridge, N.J.

Anthony Johnson, Stony Brook | So. | WR | Burlington, N.J.

Temi Ajirotutu, Villanova | Gr. | OL | Queens, N.Y.

Fintan Brose, Delaware | Gr. | OL | Irwin, Pa.

Charles Grant, William & Mary | Sr. | OL | Portsmouth, Va.

Ozzie Hutchinson, UAlbany | Gr. | OL | Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Will Marotta, UAlbany | Gr. | OL | Collegeville, Pa.

Ralph Paige, Jr., Towson | Sr. | OL | Washington, D.C.

DEFENSE

Jeremiah Grant, Richmond | Sr. | DL | South Orange, N.J.

Westley Neal, Jr., Rhode Island | Sr. | DL | Miami, Fla.

Michael Otty, Bryant | Sr. | DL | Brooklyn, N.Y.

Dylan Ruiz, New Hampshire | Sr. | DL | Orlando, Fla.

Josiah Silver, New Hampshire | Sr. | DL | Hampton, Va.

Brendan Bell, Villanova | Gr. | LB | Basking Ridge, N.J.

Shane Hartzell, Villanova | Jr. | LB | Perkasie, Pa.

A.J. Pena, Rhode Island | Jr. | LB | Branchburg, N.J.

CJ Tillman, Campbell | Sr. | LB | Rockingham, N.C.

Karon Prunty, North Carolina A&T | Jr. | CB | Portsmouth, Va.

Isas Waxter, Villanova | Gr. | CB | Newark, N.J.

Caleb Curtain, Elon | Jr. | S | Greensboro, N.C.

Ty Trinh, Villanova | Gr. | S | Owings Mills, Md.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Chandler Brayboy, Elon | Sr. | KR | Pembroke, N.C.

Gabe Sloat, Rhode Island | Sr. | PR | North Kingstown, R.I.

Keegan Vaughan, Towson | Sr. | PK | Richmond, Va.

Aaron Trusler, Richmond | Gr. | P | Melbourne, Australia

Jabril Hayes, Richmond | Sr. | SPEC | Stephens City, Va.

CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Connor Watkins, QB, Villanova

CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Caleb Curtain, S, Elon

HONORABLE MENTION: Matthew Downing, QB, Elon; Derek Robertson, QB, Monmouth; Malachi Imoh, RB, William & Mary; Marquis Buchanan, WR, Rhode Island; Joe Gillette, WR, Maine; Jaylan Sanchez, WR, Villanova; Logan Tomlinson, WR, New Hampshire; Cooper Heisey, TE, Maine; Ryan McKenna, OL, William & Mary; Dion Crews-Harris, DL, Towson; Cazeem Moore, DL, Elon; Wayne Galloway, LB, Richmond; Ryan Toscano, LB, New Hampshire; Tyron Herring, CB, Delaware; Marcus Barnes, S, William & Mary; JoJo Bermudez, KR, Delaware; TJ Speight, KR, Monmouth; VJ Wilkins, KR, Campbell; John Opalko, PK, UAlbany; Josh Cupitt, P, Delaware; Bobby Cleary, SPEC, Campbell

2024 CAA FOOTBALL PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH

(Selected by a vote of Head Coaches)

1. Villanova (9 first-place votes) 217

2. Richmond (1) 189

3. UAlbany (3) 179

4. William & Mary 175

5. Delaware (3) 163

6. Elon 157

7. New Hampshire 150

8. Rhode Island 142

9. Towson 114

10. Monmouth 95

11. Campbell 83

12. Hampton 62

13. Maine 57

14. North Carolina A&T 49

15. Bryant 46

16. Stony Brook 42

NEW ORLEANS — The Sun Belt Conference announced its 2021 Preseason All-Sun Belt Football Teams, individual awards and Preseason Poll on Tuesday.

Coastal Carolina redshirt sophomore quarterback Grayson McCall was dubbed the Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, while Troy junior linebacker Carlton Martial was named the Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. McCall was the Sun Belt Player and Freshman of the Year in 2020, while both McCall and Martial are returning All-Sun Belt First Team honorees.

Coastal Carolina paced all conference programs with 11 Preseason All-Sun Belt selections, including a conference-best seven First Team picks. The Chanticleers were followed closely by Georgia State (10), App State (9) and Louisiana (9).

Louisiana was picked to win its fourth-straight Sun Belt West Division title in the Preseason Coaches Poll, while capturing 9-of-10 first-place votes. Coastal Carolina and App State were tied atop the Sun Belt East Division ledger, though the Chanticleers claimed an edge with 6-of-10 first-place nods.

Coastal Carolina and Louisiana were Sun Belt co-champions in 2020, while App State won four-straight titles from 2016-19.

Sun Belt Football Media Day will kick off the 2021 Sun Belt football season on Thursday, July 22. The event will be broadcast on ESPN+, with a morning session from 9 a.m. to 12 noon CT and an afternoon session from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. CT.

2021 SUN BELT CONFERENCE FOOTBALL PRESEASON AWARDS

Preseason Offensive Player of the Year

Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina (RS So., QB – Indian Trail, N.C.)

Preseason Defensive Player of the Year

Carlton Martial, Troy (Jr., LB – Mobile, Ala.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt First Team Offense

QB – Grayson McCall, Coastal Carolina (RS So. – Indian Trail, N.C.)

RB – Camerun Peoples, App State (Jr. – Lineville, Ala.)

RB – Destin Coates, Georgia State (Sr. – Tallahassee, Fla.)

OL – Baer Hunter, App State (Super Sr. – Clemmons, N.C.)

OL – Shamarious Gilmore, Georgia State (RS Sr. – Riverdale, Ga.)

OL – Cooper Hodges, App State (Jr. – Glen St. Mary, Fla.)

OL – Austin Stidham, Troy (Jr. – Russellville, Ala.)

OL – O’Cyrus Torrence, Louisiana (So. – Greensburg, La.)

TE – Isaiah Likely, Coastal Carolina (Sr. – Cambridge, Mass.)

WR – Jalen Tolbert, South Alabama (Jr. – Mobile, Ala.)

WR – Jaivon Heiligh, Coastal Carolina (Sr. – Venice, Fla.)

WR – Sam Pinckney, Georgia State (RS Jr. – Greenwood, S.C.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt First Team Defense

DL – Jeffery Gunter, Coastal Carolina (RS Sr. – Durham, N.C.)

DL – CJ Brewer, Coastal Carolina (Super Sr. – Bowdon, Ga.)

DL – Demetrius Taylor, App State (Super Sr. – Miami, Fla.)

DL – Will Choloh, Troy (Jr. – Lawrenceville, Ga.)

LB – Carlton Martial, Troy (Jr. – Mobile, Ala.)

LB – D’Marco Jackson, App State (Sr. – Spartanburg, S.C.)

LB – Silas Kelly, Coastal Carolina (Super Sr. – Mount Airy, Md.)

DB – Derrick Canteen, Georgia Southern (RS So. – Evans, Ga.)

DB – Shaun Jolly, App State (Sr. – Stone Mountain, Ga.)

DB – D’Jordan Strong, Coastal Carolina (Sr. – Batesville, Miss.)

DB – Bralen Trahan, Louisiana (RS Jr. – Lafayette, La.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt First Team Special Teams

K – Noel Ruiz, Georgia State (Sr. – Wilson, N.C.)

P – Rhys Byrns, Louisiana (Jr. – Melbourne, Australia)

RS – Chris Smith, Louisiana (RS So. – Louisville, Miss.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt Second Team Offense

QB – Levi Lewis, Louisiana (Sr. – Baton Rouge, La.)

RB – JD King, Georgia Southern (Fifth-Year Sr. – Fitzgerald, Ga.)

RB – Daetrich Harrington, App State (Sr. – Douglasville, Ga.)

OL – Trey Carter, Coastal Carolina (Super Sr. – Monroeville, Ala.)

OL – Max Mitchell, Louisiana (Jr. – Monroe, La.)

OL – Dylan Bradshaw, Troy (Sr. – Enterprise, Ala.)

OL – Willie Lampkin, Coastal Carolina (So. – Lakeland, Fla.)

OL – Aaron Dowdell, Georgia Southern (Sixth-Year Sr. – Fairburn, Ga.)

TE – Roger Carter, Georgia State (Sr. – Columbia, S.C.)

WR – Thomas Hennigan, App State (Super Sr. – Greensboro, N.C.)

WR – Marcell Barbee, Texas State (Jr. – Pueblo, Colo.)

WR – Cornelius McCoy, Georgia State (Sr. – Deerfield Beach, Fla.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt Second Team Defense

DL – Zi’Yon Hill, Louisiana (RS Jr. – New Iberia, La.)

DL – Hardrick Willis, Georgia State (RS Sr. – Jonesboro, Ga.)

DL – Dontae Wilson, Georgia State (Sr. – Jefferson, Ga.)

DL – Nico Ezidore, Texas State (Jr. – Garland, Texas)

LB – Lorenzo McCaskill, Louisiana (RS Jr. – Detroit, Mich.)

LB – Teddy Gallagher, Coastal Carolina (Super Sr. – Los Angeles, Calif.)

LB – Brendan Harrington, App State (Jr. - Pittsboro, N.C.)

DB – Antavious Lane, Georgia State (RS So. – West Palm Beach, Fla.) 

DB – Quavian White, Georgia State (Sr. – Greer, S.C.)

DB – Keith Gallmon, South Alabama (Jr. – Mobile, Ala.)

DB – Eric Garror, Louisiana (Jr. – Mobile, Ala.)

Preseason All-Sun Belt Second Team Special Teams

K – Massimo Biscardi, Coastal Carolina (Sr. – Downingtown, Pa.)

P – Anthony Beck II, Georgia Southern (RS Jr. – Guyton, Ga.)

RS – Khaleb Hood, Georgia Southern (Jr. – McDonough, Ga.)

2021 SUN BELT CONFERENCE FOOTBALL PRESEASON COACHES POLL

East Division

T1. Coastal Carolina (6) – 44

T1. App State (4) – 44

3. Georgia State – 24

4. Georgia Southern – 20

5. Troy – 18

West Division

1. Louisiana (9) – 49

2. Arkansas State (1) – 38

3. South Alabama – 27

4. Texas State – 25

5. ULM – 11

Ben DeLuca

2018 C-USA FOOTBALL COACHES PRESEASON AWARDS

Offense

Defense

Special Teams