Alabama State’s quarterback Andrew Body is preparing for a pivotal 2026 campaign after enduring a third shoulder injury that sidelined him for much of the previous season.
Despite the setbacks, Body finished the 2024 season as the second‑leading rusher for the Hornets, amassing 518 yards on the ground, a testament to a playing style that blends power with purpose.
'At the end of the day, I got to be me,' Body said during a recent scrimmage, emphasizing that his identity on the field is inseparable from his willingness to carry the ball.
He explained that running the ball is not merely a flashy play‑calling option but a strategic tool, used to position the offense favorably when the situation demands.
The Hornets entered the 2026 season with lofty expectations, having been tabbed as preseason favorites to win the SWAC East Division, a projection reinforced by Body’s inclusion on the Walter Peyton Award watchlist.
A recent scrimmage illustrated his dual threat: Body logged five carries, three of them as quarterback runs, showcasing his ability to execute designed rushes while maintaining a balanced passing attack.
Coach and teammates alike have praised his resilience, noting that his health will be the linchpin for an offense that leaned heavily on his rushing production in 2025.
The Road Ahead
With the season still months away, Body remains focused on staying true to his identity while navigating the physical demands of a comeback, a narrative that could define not only his personal trajectory but also the Hornets’ quest for a conference title.
Sports reporter Jaeden Day, who covers Alabama State football and Auburn recruiting for the Montgomery Advertiser, has been tracking Body’s progress and the broader impact of his style on the team’s fortunes.