With the college football season just around the corner, ESPN has released its 2024 preseason All-America team, highlighting the players poised to make a significant impact on the field. This year’s roster reflects a mix of returning stars and rising talents, promising an exhilarating season as teams navigate new conference alignments and prepare for the expanded College Football Playoff.
Quarterback and Offensive Standouts
QB: Carson Beck, Georgia
Carson Beck is set to lead the Georgia Bulldogs with poise and precision. After an impressive debut season as a starter, Beck passed for 3,941 yards, ranking third nationally. Despite losing key playmakers like Brock Bowers, Beck’s ability to spread the ball around and maintain accuracy (72.4% completion rate) makes him a top contender for this season.
RB: Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State
Ollie Gordon II, the reigning Doak Walker Award winner, dominated last season with 1,732 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns. His robust performance, including 1,056 yards after contact, underlines his durability and explosive capability, making him a formidable force in the backfield.
RB: Omarion Hampton, North Carolina
Omarion Hampton burst onto the scene as a true sophomore, finishing fifth nationally in rushing yards with 1,504. His versatility, marked by 16 total touchdowns and significant contributions in the passing game, positions him as one of the most dynamic running backs this season.
WR: Luther Burden III, Missouri
Luther Burden III continues to live up to his billing as a top receiving prospect. With 1,212 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns over his first two seasons, Burden’s ability to generate yards after the catch (725 yards last season) makes him a standout receiver.
WR: Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona
Tetairoa McMillan’s connection with quarterback Noah Fifita is one of the most anticipated in college football. With 90 catches for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, McMillan’s physicality and catching ability make him a top target for Arizona.
TE: Colston Loveland, Michigan
Colston Loveland steps into the spotlight as the premier tight end following Brock Bowers’ departure to the NFL. Loveland’s blend of receiving and blocking skills, evidenced by 45 catches and four touchdowns last season, will be crucial for Michigan’s offense.
OT: Will Campbell, LSU
Will Campbell has established himself as a cornerstone of LSU’s offensive line. The junior left tackle’s consistent performance, including no sacks allowed last season, makes him a top prospect for the 2025 NFL draft.
OG: Tate Ratledge, Georgia
Tate Ratledge is a key leader on Georgia’s offensive line. Known for his pass-blocking prowess, Ratledge returns as one of the best guards in the country, contributing to what could be one of Georgia’s best offensive lines under Kirby Smart.
C: Parker Brailsford, Alabama
Parker Brailsford’s transition from Washington to Alabama brings a significant boost to the Tide’s offensive line. His quickness and versatility at center will be crucial for Alabama’s offensive success.
OG: Tyler Booker, Alabama
Tyler Booker’s size and power make him a dominant force at left guard. With a strong track record of run blocking and pass protection, Booker’s presence will be a key asset for Alabama’s offensive line.
OT: Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
Kelvin Banks Jr. remains a stalwart at left tackle for Texas. His consistency and strong pass-blocking skills make him a leading candidate for future NFL success.
All-purpose: Travis Hunter, Colorado
Travis Hunter’s dual-threat capability as a receiver and cornerback sets him apart. His ability to impact both sides of the ball, along with his dynamic playmaking, makes him one of the most versatile players in college football.
Defensive Dominators
DE: James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
James Pearce Jr. is one of the top pass rushers in college football, tying for the SEC lead with 10 sacks last season. His pressure on quarterbacks and defensive impact makes him a top defensive end.
DT: Mason Graham, Michigan
Mason Graham’s relentless play in the interior of Michigan’s defensive line, including his role as Rose Bowl MVP, highlights his effectiveness against both the run and pass.
DT: Deone Walker, Kentucky
Deone Walker’s size and athleticism make him a standout defensive tackle. His ability to disrupt plays, even when double-teamed, underlines his value as a defensive anchor for Kentucky.
DE: Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
Nic Scourton’s return to Texas A&M after a standout season at Purdue adds depth to the Aggies’ defensive line. His impressive pass-rush ability and array of moves make him a key defensive player to watch.
LB: Barrett Carter, Clemson
Barrett Carter’s versatility and playmaking ability make him a top linebacker. His skills in both pass coverage and rushing the passer were instrumental for Clemson’s defense last season.
LB: Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma
Danny Stutsman’s return for his senior season bolsters Oklahoma’s defense. His experience and production, including 26.5 tackles for loss over the past two seasons, make him a crucial defensive presence.
LB: Harold Perkins, LSU
Harold Perkins’ ability to play multiple linebacker roles and his impressive sack numbers as a freshman highlight his playmaking potential. His versatility will be a key asset for LSU’s defense.
CB: Will Johnson, Michigan
Will Johnson’s shutdown ability against top receivers and his impressive performance in the national championship game make him one of the top cornerbacks in the country.
CB: Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame
Benjamin Morrison’s knack for interceptions and solid coverage skills place him among the elite cornerbacks. His ability to make plays on the ball is a significant asset for Notre Dame’s defense.
S: Malaki Starks, Georgia
Malaki Starks’ contributions in both run support and pass coverage have made him a cornerstone of Georgia’s defense. His consistent playmaking is crucial for the Bulldogs.
S: Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Caleb Downs’ strong performance at Alabama and his seamless transition to Ohio State showcase his skills as a top defensive back. His tackling and coverage ability will be vital for the Buckeyes.
Special Teams Standouts
PK: Graham Nicholson, Alabama
Graham Nicholson’s move to Alabama adds a veteran presence to the Tide’s special teams. His accuracy and range, highlighted by his outstanding performance at Miami (Ohio), enhance Alabama’s kicking game.
P: Alex Mastromanno, Florida State
Alex Mastromanno’s punting ability, including his high rate of fair catches and precision in pinning opponents deep, makes him a top punter and a reliable asset for Florida State.
Returner: Zachariah Branch, USC
Zachariah Branch’s electrifying return skills and potential impact as a receiver make him a dual threat for USC. His ability to provide game-changing plays on special teams is a key asset for the Trojans.
As college football’s new season approaches, these players are set to make their mark. With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams and conferences shifting, 2024 promises to be an unforgettable year of college football. Keep an eye on these All-America selections as they look to lead their teams to glory.