Wake Forest University continues to make waves in the Atlantic Coast Conference as the preseason All‑ACC selections were announced, highlighting a group of standout players poised to shape the team's fortunes this fall.
Recognition and Rankings
Carlos Hernandez, a senior wide receiver and return specialist, earned multiple accolades. He was named a preseason All‑American by Phil Steele and secured a First Team All‑ACC spot as a returner while also earning Fourth Team honors at wide receiver. Hernandez’s junior season featured 40 receptions for 611 yards and three touchdowns, underscoring his dual-threat capabilities.
Langston Hardy, a redshirt junior linebacker, received a Second Team All‑ACC nod after leading the conference with 17 tackles for loss. His aggressive play also produced a career‑high seven tackles, eight tackles for loss, a fumble recovery and three pass breakups in the previous campaign.
Aiden Hall, another redshirt junior, was placed on the Third Team All‑ACC after posting a personal best of seven tackles, eight tackles for loss, a fumble recovery and three pass breakups. His emergence adds depth to the defensive front.
Davaughn Patterson, a redshirt sophomore, earned Fourth Team All‑ACC recognition after compiling 78 total tackles, four tackles for loss, nine pass breakups and a forced fumble. His all‑around production reflects the defensive unit’s growing stability.
Impact on the Program
The quartet’s preseason honors signal a renewed optimism among the coaching staff and fan base. With proven playmakers on both sides of the ball, Wake Forest aims to translate early accolades into on‑field success during the upcoming schedule.
Looking Forward
As the Demon Deacons prepare for their first matchup, the spotlight will be on how these recognized athletes integrate into the offensive and defensive schemes. Their performance could set the tone for a season that many expect to be competitive within the ACC.