- Ckelby Given Southern Jaguars (Defensive End)
The preseason favorite,senior Ckelby Givens is a wrecking ball off the edge for Southern, leading the Jaguars charge toward a West Division crown. In 2024, Givens terrorized quarterbacks with an FCS leading 26.5 Tackles for loss,11 sacks(eight nationally),67 total tackles,12 quarterback hurries, three force fumble forced fumbles,and a pass breakups earing him a co Outstanding Defensive Player in the SWAC and Buck Buckghan finalist spot. A state Perform Preseason All- American Givens anchors a first team All SWAC defensive line that could stifle run-heavy offenses like Jackson State. If Southern contends for the SWAC title,Givens disruptive play already boasting career totals of 58 TFL and 23.5 sacks makes him the man to beat. “He’s a game changer”, said Jaguars coach Terrence Graves at Media Day.
2.Jeremiah Williams,Jackson State Tigers(Defensive Tackle)
Jackson State interior force senior Jermiah Williams is the heartbeat of the defending champions defense,earning first team All-SWAC preseason honors. In 2024, Williams delivered an All American performance with 58 tackles,7.5 TFL,two sacks,and four quarterback hurries,clogging lanes,and freeing linebackers in units that propelled JSU to the Celebration Bowl. Coach T.C Taylor calls him “ the most dominated D-tackle in FCS football” praising his work ethic and leadership. With JSU eyeing a repeat, Williams ability to collapse pockets especially in rivalry titles against Alcorn or Southern could vaut him to the award if he builds on last year’s breakout.
3. Stemarion Edwards, Alcorn State Braves
Alcorn State tackling machine, senior Stemarion Edwards,brings sideline to sideline speed to a Braves defense predicted second in the West. Leading his team with 91 tackles in 2024,Edwards added 13.5 TFL,2.5 sacks,three forced fumbles,and an interception,showcasing his physicality and range. A first team All SWAC preseason pick and HBCU National Player of the Year watchlist member,Edward versatility could shine against a pass offense like Jackson State. If Alcorn upsets contenders and climbs the standing,Edwards all around production might earn him the nod rewarding his steady rise as one of SWAC top playmakers.
4. Davion WestMore,Florida A&M Rattlers (Defensive Lineman)
Florida A&M edge runner Davion Westmoreland is a transfer talent poised to fill voids left by departed stars on a Rattlers squad slotted second in the East. In 2024, the senior notched 33 tackles,eight TFL,4.5 sacks,and three quarterback hurries. A first team All SWAC preseason selection after stints Kanasa and Hutchinson JUICO(where he racked up 89 tackles and 7.5 sacks), Westmoreland athleticism could disrupt in key matchups like Florida Classic. Under new coach James Colzie III,if FAMU exceeds expectations and contends for the East,Westmore pass rush prowess might position him as a surprise contender.
5. Vincetn Paige Jr. Southern Jaguars(Linebacker)
Teaming with Givens on Southern’s stingy front seven,junior Vincent Page Jr is a rising enforcer who earned first team All SWAC preseason accolades. After transferring in summer 2024, Paige exploded midseason,leading the Jaguars tackles twice(11 vs Texas Southern, nine vs Nicholis) while amassing four TFL,two sacks,three quarterback hurries,and a forced fumble overall. Coach Graves added that Paige is a big addition to the team . He loves his speed and scheme mastery plus he plays fast. IF Southern defense dominate the West(in which they will) holding teams under 20 points per game Paige havocs creating ability could spits votes with Givens or propel him to the top in breakout year,
The SWAC Defensive Player of the Year often goes to the anchor of a championship caliber unit where sacks,turnovers,and clutch stops in high profile games like (Boom Box Classic,Southern Heritage Classic Florida Classic and Bayo Classic) could tip the scales. As season starts next saturday on August 30 openers these defenders are set to define the 2025 Narrative.