The 2026 FCS Football Central Preseason All‑America team has been unveiled, and the CAA Football conference boasts six of the nation’s most promising players on the list.
Rhode Island Leads the Pack
Rhode Island anchors the selections with four representatives, highlighted by senior wide receiver Marquis Buchanan and linebacker Rohan Davy earning first‑team honors. Their inclusion underscores the Rams’ continued dominance in the conference.
Elon’s junior kicker Luke Barnes also secured a first‑team slot after converting 15 of 18 field goals and remaining flawless on extra points throughout the previous season.
The second‑team recognitions went to Rhode Island quarterback Devin Farrell and offensive lineman Tre Alexander, while North Carolina A&T’s dynamic punt returner Elijah Kennedy earned a spot after ranking second nationally in return average and delivering two touchdown returns.
Buchanan’s 1,337 receiving yards and eight touchdowns in 2025 placed him atop the FCS, while Davy compiled 101 tackles, including 13 for loss and seven sacks, showcasing a rare blend of speed and power. Barnes’ perfect extra‑point record added reliability to Elon’s special teams, and Farrell’s 267‑of‑410 passing performance for 3,745 yards and 24 scores highlighted a potent aerial attack. Alexander’s presence helped the Rams’ offense average 430 yards and 31.3 points per game, and Kennedy’s return prowess gave his team a field‑position edge.
The concentration of talent from these programs signals a competitive landscape for the upcoming season, with the CAA poised to challenge traditional powerhouses. As the preseason accolades settle, coaches and fans alike will watch closely to see how these standout athletes translate their accolades into on‑field impact.