MOBILE, Ala. – South Alabama linebacker Blayne Myrick has been voted the Sun Belt Conference's Preseason Defensive Player of the Year.
 
Myrick's preseason honor comes on the heels of him earning All-Sun Belt Second Team honors at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
 
The Fairhope, Ala. native started all 13 games for the Jaguars and led them to seven wins, including a victory in the IS4S Salute to Veterans Bowl over Western Michigan. Myrick totaled 101 tackles on the year, including 45 solo tackles. He is the top returning tackler in the Sun Belt Conference. Myrick also forced one fumble and intercepted a pass against Texas State, which he returned 33 yards for a touchdown.
 
Myrick and the Jags open the season against Morgan State on Saturday, Aug. 30.
 
2025 SUN BELT CONFERENCE FOOTBALL PRESEASON AWARDS

Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Braylon Braxton, Southern Miss (RS Sr., QB – Frisco, Texas)
 
Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Blayne Myrick, South Alabama (RS Jr., LB – Fairhope, Ala.)
 
Preseason Special Teams Player of the Year
Clune Van Andel, Arkansas State (Jr., K – Grand Rapids, Mich.)
 
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