Phil Steele's preseason All-Mountain West Team recognition brings optimism to the Northern Illinois University football program, with seven Huskies earning spots across offense and defense. The selections reflect a blend of proven production and promising potential as the squad gears up for a rigorous non‑conference slate.
Offensive Standouts
Running back Telly Johnson Jr. headlines the offensive contingent, earning a Third Team nod after a sophomore season that saw him amass 712 rushing yards and four touchdowns. His 5.74 yards per carry placed him 29th nationally, and every one of his four scores covered at least 40 yards, underscoring his big‑play capability.
Wide receiver DeAree Rogers also received Third Team honors, leading the Huskies with 506 receiving yards and three touchdowns. Rogers has been remarkably consistent, logging at least one reception in 32 straight games and posting a season‑high 107 yards against Ohio.
Defensive and Special Teams Contributions
Cornerback Dev'ion Reynolds was placed on the Third Team as well, having played in all 12 games last season with four starts. He finished with 16 tackles and three pass breakups, while his prowess on special teams earned him 16th‑ranking in the FBS for kickoff return average at 25.3 yards. Reynolds capped the year with his first career kickoff return touchdown against Holy Cross.
The offensive line also garnered attention, with Landon Hron and Ross Liegel earning Fourth Team selections. Both return as starters, having helped the line average 187.1 rushing yards per game and allow just 1.58 sacks per game, ranking among the top 40 in the FBS.
Additional Honors and Upcoming Schedule
Linebacker Jashawn Nelson and kicker Ryan Short received Fourth Team recognition after contributing a blocked punt against UMass — the first such play for an NIU player since 2019 — and a reliable 15‑of‑16 field‑goal performance last season at Butler. Short also converted 22 of 25 extra‑point attempts.
The Huskies open the season with a high‑profile matchup at Iowa on Saturday, September 5, kicking off at 3:15 p.m. CT on the Big Ten Network. A week later, they travel to face Illinois State on September 12 at 6 p.m. CT, streaming on MW+. Season tickets for the upcoming campaign are available starting at $102.