Preseason All‑America Honorees
The Patriot League announced Monday that eight of its football standouts have been selected to the 2026 Stats Perform FCS Preseason All‑America team, a testament to the conference’s growing prominence in the Football Championship Subdivision.
Lehigh University leads the league contingent with three honorees, highlighted by senior running back Luke Yoder, who earned the league’s Offensive Player of the Year after amassing 1,409 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns last season.
Villanova’s dynamic return specialist Ja’briel Mace earned a First‑Team nod as a kick returner, having posted a 32.0‑yard average and two touchdowns on the ground in 2025.
Other selections include Bucknell’s wide‑out Sam Milligan, who topped the league with 10 receiving touchdowns, Lehigh’s two‑time All‑League pick Aidan Palmer, and Richmond’s standout duo Camden Byrd and Carter Glassmyer, both recognized for their All‑Patriot League performances.
Holy Cross’ Cam Nolan, a two‑time All‑Patriot League selection and 2025 William V. Campbell Trophy semifinalist, rounds out the group, while Nick Peltekian joins Palmer as a repeat All‑League honoree.
Conference Impact
The recognition underscores the Patriot League’s competitive depth, a point echoed by the league’s official statement and its partners, including CAA Football and Stats Perform, who compile the preseason accolades.