Villanova Football: Hartzell Named to Preseason All-American First Team

Villanova Football senior linebacker Shane Hartzell picked up a preseason First Team All-American nomination from FCS Football Central, a wing of Sports Illustrated, as the Wildcats continue to gain national recognition following a second straight NCAA Tournament appearance.

Hartzell made 121 tackles last season (including a team-high 67 solo stops) along with 9.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. That earned him a Phil Steele Second Team All-American nod along with a spot on the CAA Football First Team Defense. Now, with another season of experience under his belt, at least one outlet projects the six foot tall, 230 pound middle linebacker to double down on his performance.

Other nominees to the team include running back David Avit, who landed on the second team. A rising sophomore, Avit earned a CAA Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2024 after picking up 923 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 173 carries. He broke onto the scene during a two week stretch against LIU and Stony Brook that saw him rush for 343 yards and five touchdowns.

Other Villanova Football stars earning preseason honors include offensive lineman Jake Pickard, who picked up a first team nomination to the Phil Steele All-American team.

The Wildcats season will begin at home against Colgate on Saturday, Sept. 6.

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