### Tulane Football Leads the Charge in 2025 Preseason All-AAC
The **Tulane football program** is making waves as they proudly announce a **record-breaking 11 selections** to Phil Steele’s **2025 Preseason All-AAC Team**. This impressive tally not only tops the league but places Tulane ahead of four other rival schools.
### Who Made the Cut?
Among those honored, the following standout players have made **First Team** selections:
– [**Shadre Hurst**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/shadre-hurst/14746) – Guard
– [**Derrick Graham**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/derrick-graham/14924) – Tackle
– [**Santana Hopper**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/santana-hopper/16321) – Defensive Line
– [**Sam Howard**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/sam-howard/14899) – Linebacker
– [**Mo Westmoreland**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/mo-westmoreland/16338) – Linebacker
#### Spotlight on First Team Selections
Each of these players has not only demonstrated remarkable talent but has also played pivotal roles in **Tulane’s success** over the past seasons.
– **Shadre Hurst**, a redshirt junior guard, started all 14 games last season, significantly bolstering an offense that ranked **top five** in seven categories league-wide. Hurst’s impact was felt in areas such as **third down conversions** (ranked 1st with **50.3%**) and **scoring offense** (2nd with **35.1 points/game**). His accolades include being named a **2024 First Team All-AAC** selection and a **2025 Preseason All-American**.
– **Derrick Graham**, a standout redshirt senior offensive tackle, mirrored Hurst’s success with a solid season of his own. As a linchpin on the offensive line, he helped the team maintain its high offensive rankings and earned recognition as a **2024 First Team All-AAC** lineman.
– **Santana Hopper**, who recently transferred from Appalachian State, saw action in 14 games last season, with stats that include **36 tackles** and **5 sacks**, promising a fierce contribution to the defensive lineup.
– **Sam Howard**, a senior linebacker, has made a name for himself with a **school-record five fumble recoveries** last season, alongside **63 tackles** and **2.5 sacks**. His **2024 Second Team All-AAC** selection is well-deserved.
– **Mo Westmoreland**, a redshirt senior linebacker from UTEP, ranked **23rd nationally** with **8 sacks** in the previous season, adding depth and experience to the Green Wave defense.
#### Rising Stars
In addition to the First Team, **Kameron Hamilton** and **Omari Hayes** were named to the **Second Team**, while **Jack Hollifield** and **Bailey Despanie** made **Third Team** selections.
– [**Kameron Hamilton**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/kameron-hamilton/14739), a senior defensive lineman, emerged as a force with **4.5 sacks** and a decisive presence on the field.
– [**Omari Hayes**](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/omari-hayes/16319), after a strong season at Florida Atlantic, brings versatility, being recognized as both a **punt returner** and a wide receiver.
#### A Season of Triumphs
The **2024 season** ended on a high note for the Green Wave, finishing with a **9-5 record** and a spot in the bowl game—a feat achieved for the **sixth time** in seven years.
Tulane’s extensive accolades extend to their **2025 Preseason Media Poll**, where they earned **third place** with **362 points**, reflecting a bright outlook for the upcoming season.
### Meet the New Coach: Jon Sumrall
Tulane recently introduced **[Jon Sumrall](https://tulanegreenwave.com/sports/football/roster/coaches/jon-sumrall/7706)** as the **42nd head coach** in program history. With an impressive **32-9 record** over the last three years, Sumrall is primed to lead the Green Wave into exciting new territory, bringing his vast experience and success from last season.
### Conclusion: The Green Wave’s Future
With an outstanding array of talent in the **2025 All-AAC selections**, Tulane University continues to fortify its position as a formidable contender in college football. The Green Wave is building on a rich legacy that blends athletic prowess with the vibrant spirit of New Orleans.
For fan engagement and updates, make sure to **follow Tulane football** on their social platforms on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/greenwavefootball), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/GreenWaveFootball), and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/greenwavefb/).
