Full NFF Release

IRVING, Texas -- Twelve football student-athletes from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) were recognized by the National Football Foundation (NFF) on Wednesday, as the organization honored those playing intercollegiate football in 2018 after having earned bachelor's degrees.

In all, the NFF recognized 1,200 student-athletes encompassing FBS, FCS, Div. II, Div. III and NAIA.

"The National Football Foundation takes great pride in its role as a leading voice in the promotion of the scholar-athlete," said NFF Chairman Archie Manning. "And highlighting the 1,200 student-athletes who have not only earned their undergraduate degrees but are now pursuing additional diplomas sends a powerful message about the doors that college football opens. This list allows us to showcase those individuals who have truly taken full advantage of the opportunities created by college football."
 
The NFF compiled the list with the help of athletics directors, faculty athletics representatives and sports information directors from all divisions who identified the players on their 2018 fall rosters who have already earned their undergraduate degrees. A total of 235 schools responded, creating the list of 1,200 student-athletes who are slated to play this year while pursuing additional diplomas.

"Today's release allows us to recognize a truly exceptional group of college football players," said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell. "And it expands our efforts to highlight the integral role that college football has played in the education of millions of student-athletes over the years. It is often said that college is not about the four years on campus but the next 40 years of your career. Clearly those on this list have made the most of their college experiences, and we are extremely pleased to shine a light on their accomplishments."

The 12 MEAC student-athletes honored are:

-Jason Smith, Delaware State
-Jamaal Darden, North Carolina A&T State
-Breontae Matthews, North Carolina A&T State
-Julian McKnight, North Carolina A&T State
-Terrence Peterson, North Carolina A&T State
-Lamar Raynard, North Carolina A&T State
-Julius Reynolds, North Carolina A&T State
-Jiaundric Richardson, North Carolina A&T State
-Jamarcus Johnson, North Carolina Central
-King Kiaku, North Carolina Central
-Nick Leverett, North Carolina Central
-Marvin Zanders, North Carolina Central