CLEVELAND (August 3, 2026) – Phil Steele, nationally known as one of the best football analysts in the entire country, unveiled his 2026 Preseason FCS All-Conference Team where Howard University saw six Bison receive recognition. The announcement came Monday.
 
Graduate running back Eden James (Indianapolis) headlined the day, earning preseason player of the year.
 
On July 29, James was named to the third annual HBCU FCS National Player of the Year Award Preseason Watch List. Last season, he played only two games due to injuries. In his collegiate career, the Indy native has almost 1,500 yards rushing for 5.0 yards per carry.
 
In addition, six Bison made the 2026 Phil Steele Preseason All-Conference Team.
 
Four Bison earned a spot on the first team: James; graduate defensive back Kedrick Green (Winston-Salem, N.C.); junior placekicker Matt Conord (Lithia, Fla.) and sophomore punter Liam Allen IV (Sanford, Fla.).
 
The second team consisted of graduates quarterback Ja'Shawn Scroggins (Las Vegas) and linebacker Gabe Stephens (Charlotte, N.C.).
 
These teams were selected by Phil Steele & the draftscout.com staff. Since 2001, Draftscout.com has been the gold standard industry leading database built for compiling & charting College Football Prospects from Prep to Pro.
 
On Aug. 29, HU takes on Alabama A&M in the annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge in Atlanta, live on ABC.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com or Phil Steele at www.PhilSteele.com.