The University of Memphis announced that six of its football players have earned spots on the Pro Football Network's Preseason All‑American Conference Teams, a distinction that underscores the program's rising profile heading into the 2025 season.
Preseason Honors
Defensive lineman J'Mond Tapp joins the first team for the fourth straight year, cementing his status as one of the most consistently recognized talents in the conference. Safety Ian Foster, also a first‑team selection, marks his fifth overall preseason accolade, having previously earned three first‑team nods and a third‑team nod as a kick returner.
Running back Manny Covey, who transferred from Cincinnati, earned first‑team honors as a punt returner after a versatile freshman campaign that saw him amass 436 all‑purpose yards. Offensive lineman Riley McGehee was placed on the second team, collecting his second preseason recognition after a stint on the Phil Steele Fourth Team.
Cornerback Anthony Richard Jr., a transfer from Marshall and Southern Miss, also secured a second‑team slot after leading the Golden Eagles with four interceptions last season. Ahmere Foster, another safety, earned third‑team honors after two seasons anchoring Coach Charles Huff's defensive backfield.
Coaching Changes and Schedule Outlook
Charles Huff, in his inaugural year as Memphis head coach, inherits a roster bolstered by experienced transfers and returning veterans. He notes that eight of the team's eleven FBS opponents secured bowl eligibility in 2025, setting a high bar for the upcoming slate.
The Tigers open with nonconference matchups against Arkansas State on September 5 and UT Martin on September 19 before diving into American Athletic Conference play against UAB, East Carolina, Army and Temple. Road trips to UNLV and Boise State promise early tests, while home games against Charlotte, Tulane, South Florida and Navy round out the schedule.
With a blend of seasoned transfers, standout freshmen and a coaching staff eager to prove itself, Memphis aims to translate preseason accolades into on‑field success. The upcoming season will be a litmus test for Huff's vision and the players' ability to capitalize on the momentum generated by their individual honors.