Campbell University’s defensive standout DaVonyae Pettis has been selected as an honorable mention on the Preseason All-CAA team, a nod to his rapid rise in his first full season with the Fighting Camels.
The team’s placement eighth in the conference’s preseason poll reflects both the high expectations placed on the program and the competitive depth of the CAA, where Rhode Island earned unanimous favorite status for the 2026 championship.
Monmouth followed in second with 119 points, while Elon narrowly trailed in third with 115, and New Hampshire secured fourth with 106 points. Stony Brook rounded out the top five with 105 points, underscoring a tightly contested landscape.
Pettis’s statistical footprint from 2025 is impressive: he recorded 25 tackles, including a team‑high 8.5 stops for loss and 4.0 sacks. His disruptive presence also yielded three forced fumbles, seven quarterback hurries, and three passes defended, painting a picture of a versatile playmaker.
Beyond the numbers, Pettis earned nomination to the 2026 Good Works Team, recognizing his leadership in community service and commitment to making a positive impact off the field.
Season Opener on the Road
The Fighting Camels will kick off the 2026 schedule on the road at East Tennessee State on August 29, a game that will test their early-season readiness against a formidable opponent.
Campbell’s first home appearance is slated for September 5 against Western Carolina, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m., offering fans a chance to see the team’s new-look defense in front of a home crowd.
Head coach Braxton Harris and senior linebacker Jaeden Jones are expected to lean on Pettis’s experience as the defense looks to build on the momentum generated by his preseason accolades.
With the American Football Coaches Association’s endorsement and a clear set of objectives, the Fighting Camels aim to translate early‑season promise into a competitive run toward the CAA championship.