The Shadow
HARRISONBURG, Va. – For the second consecutive year, Athlon Sports recognized 12 James Madison football student-athletes on its Preseason All-Sun Belt Team, the organization announced in its 2025 magazine. The 2025 preseason team marks the third consecutive year the Dukes have earned 12 preseason all-conference honors. Headlining the pack for JMU were the First Team selections of running back George Pettaway, offensive lineman Pat McMurtrie, defensive lineman Immanuel Bush, and safety Jacob Thomas. All four individuals received preseason first team laurels from Phil Steele earlier this month. Newcomer wide receiver Nick DeGennaro took home Second Team honors, along with linebacker Trent Hendrickand nickel DJ Barksdale, giving both defenders a pair of preseason nods this summer. Making the third team were offensive linemen Carter Sweazie and Cam McNair, along with defensive lineman Xavier Holmes. It’s the second preseason selection for Sweazie, who was also honored by Phil Steele. Rounding out the picks for the Dukes and making their second Fourth Team of the preseason were offensive lineman Zach Greenberg and cornerback Elijah Culp. The official Sun Belt preseason all-conference team will be unveiled leading up to Sun Belt Conference Media Days, which take place July 22-23 in New Orleans.
