Preseason Watchlist Highlights
The Florida International University Panthers enter the new campaign with a notable presence on the Conference USA preseason watchlist, as five of their own have been singled out for recognition. The selections reflect a blend of individual excellence and the program's growing competitiveness within the league.
On the offensive side, wide receiver Kyle McNeal and offensive lineman Antonio Tripp Jr. represent the Panthers' attacking ambitions. McNeal, a junior from Riviera Beach, posted 310 yards on 31 catches last season and capped his sophomore year with his first career touchdown in the First Responder Bowl against UTSA. Tripp, hailing from Baltimore, contributed to a line that set program records for rushing yards and yards per carry.
Defensively, Kenton Simmons and Shamir Sterlin anchor the Panthers' front seven and secondary respectively. Simmons earned Second Team All‑CUSA honors after recording six sacks and was named Preseason First Team All‑CUSA by both Athlon Sports and Phil Steele. Sterlin, who finished fourth on the team with 65 tackles, added two interceptions and six passes defended, earning CUSA All‑Freshman and Honorable Mention accolades.
Special teams also bring a spark, as Maguire Anderson returned a punt 97 yards for a touchdown in the same First Responder Bowl matchup. His return stands as the longest punt return in bowl and CUSA history, tying the program record set by T.Y. Hilton.
These recognitions underscore a broader narrative of growth for FIU football. With five players featured on the watchlist, the Panthers are positioning themselves as a formidable contender in Conference USA, drawing on strong performances from both sides of the ball and special teams. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming season reflects confidence in the program's trajectory and its ability to compete at a higher level.