2024 All-CIAA Preseason Team Unveiled with Familiar Faces Leading the Way

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) recently announced the highly anticipated 2024 All-CIAA preseason team, and the rankings did not disappoint. With 23 returning players from the 2023 All-CIAA team, including 18 first-teamers, the lineup is stacked with talent.

Leading the pack is Jada Byers of Virginia Union, the CIAA’s leading rusher, who dominated the conference last season with 1,186 yards on the ground and 16 touchdowns. Byers averaged an impressive 118.6 yards per game and 5.7 yards per carry, solidifying his spot as a key player for the Panthers.

On the passing front, Isaiah Freeman of Lincoln (Pa.) stood out as the CIAA’s Offensive Player of the Year, showcasing his skills with 2,312 passing yards and 25 touchdowns. Freeman also contributed on the ground with 497 rushing yards, making him a dual-threat quarterback to watch this season.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Virginia State and Virginia Union are predicted to finish first and second, respectively, in the conference’s new no-divisional format. Fans can mark their calendars for the 2024 CIAA Football Championship Game on Nov. 16 in Salem, Virginia, where the top teams will battle it out for the title.

Last year, Virginia Union secured their first CIAA title in over two decades with a 21-10 victory over Fayetteville State University, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With a lineup of standout players and high expectations for the top teams, the 2024 CIAA season is sure to be one filled with intense competition and thrilling matchups.