The University of California, Davis announced that four of its football standouts have earned spots on the STATS Perform FCS Preseason All‑American Team, a testament to the program’s rising prominence as the Aggies gear up for the 2025 campaign.
Preseason Accolades
Samuel Gbatu, Jr. and Rex Connors lead the list with First‑Team honors, while Winston Williams and Porter Connors secure Second‑ and Third‑Team recognitions respectively. Gbatu’s 2025 campaign was nothing short of spectacular, as he topped the Big Sky in receiving yards and touchdowns, hauling in eleven scores that tied for third most in program history.
Rex Connors added another layer of distinction by setting a new program record with 291 career tackles, a milestone that also earned him Big Sky Defensive Player of the Week honors and a place on the STATS Perform FCS National Defensive Player of the Week watchlist.
Both Williams and Porter Connors are returning from injuries that sidelined them for parts of the previous season. Williams aims to recapture the All‑Big Sky First Team form he displayed in 2024, while Porter, who logged 25 tackles and a fumble recovery in just four games, is eager to build on his recent contributions.
Opening Battle
The Aggies open their season against Portland State on August 29, a matchup that promises to test the depth and resilience of a squad brimming with preseason accolades. The game will serve as the first real gauge of how these honored players translate their individual successes into team triumphs.
With a blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent, UC Davis looks to translate its preseason promise into a competitive season, hoping to climb the Big Sky standings and make a deep run in the FCS playoffs.