Morgan’s Football team swept the top individual honors at the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) preseason football awards on Tuesday, despite being picked to finish third in the conference and receiving no first-place votes.
Sophomore running back Jason Collins Jr. and senior linebacker Erick Hunter were named Preseason Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year, respectively.
The announcement was made during the MEAC’s annual Media Day held at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
Hunter, who missed most of the 2024 season due to a shoulder injury, returned for the final two games and delivered a standout performance against Howard, recording seven tackles and one sack.
He was also named to the 2025 Preseason All-MEAC First Team, establishing himself as one of the best defenders in the conference.
“It’s just preseason,” said Hunter. “At the end of the day, it’s great to be recognized, but I want to show what I can do. It doesn’t matter until the season is finished.”
Collins Jr. made an immediate impact in his freshman season, earning 2024 MEAC Rookie of the Year honors after rushing for 634 yards and eight touchdowns on 114 carries.
He also recorded 17 receptions for 143 yards, proving to be a dual threat out of the backfield. Despite his Offensive Player of the Year recognition, Collins Jr. was named to the 2025 Preseason All-MEAC Second Team.
Morgan State opens its season on Saturday, Aug. 30, against the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
