Who Are These Rising Razorbacks? Phil Steele Honors Kam Shanks and Fernando Carmona in Preseason All-America List
FAYETTEVILLE, AR — As the college football season inches closer, Phil Steele’s Preseason All-America teams are already generating major buzz—and two Arkansas Razorbacks are making headlines for all the right reasons. Kam Shanks and Fernando Carmona have been recognized as some of the nation’s top talents, earning First and Second Team honors, respectively.
For Razorback fans and college football followers alike, the question is now loud and clear: Who are these rising stars—and how will they impact Arkansas’s 2025 campaign?
🏆 National Recognition from Phil Steele
In Steele’s highly respected preseason list, Kam Shanks was named First Team Punt Returner (PR), while Fernando Carmona earned a spot as Second Team Offensive Guard (OG). Both players have emerged as key contributors for the Razorbacks, and this early recognition places them among the elite at their respective positions heading into the new season.
“Getting named on Phil Steele’s list is no small feat,” said Arkansas head coach [Name]. “These guys have worked for it. They’re the real deal.”
⚡ Kam Shanks: Arkansas’s Explosive Special Teams Weapon
Shanks, known for his speed, vision, and fearlessness, turned heads last season with multiple momentum-shifting returns. His electric play style and reliability in the punt return game have now earned him a national spotlight.
2024 Stats (Punt Return):
Average return: 14.3 yards
Longest return: 68 yards
Punt return TDs: 2
His ability to flip the field and provide scoring opportunities on special teams has made him one of the most dangerous return men in the SEC.
“Every time he touches the ball, something exciting can happen,” said a teammate. “He’s a game-changer.”
💪 Fernando Carmona: The Quiet Anchor of the O-Line
While Shanks brings flash, Fernando Carmona brings force. As a second-team All-America offensive guard, Carmona has been instrumental in protecting the quarterback and opening up rushing lanes. Known for his strength, footwork, and high football IQ, Carmona is the type of lineman every offense dreams of building around.
2024 Stats (Offensive Line):
0 sacks allowed in conference play
96% pass-block efficiency
8 pancakes vs. ranked opponents
Standing tall at 6’4″ and weighing over 310 pounds, Carmona’s presence on the field is both physical and strategic. His leadership is also a major asset for Arkansas’s locker room culture.
🐗 What This Means for Arkansas Football
With two players now featured on Phil Steele’s All-America radar, Arkansas could be on the brink of a standout season. These individual honors reflect broader improvements in depth, player development, and recruiting success under the current coaching staff.
“Awards like these boost our program’s visibility,” said the Arkansas offensive coordinator. “But more importantly, they show that our guys are ready to compete with anyone in the country.”
🔮 Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season kicks off, the performances of Kam Shanks and Fernando Carmona will be crucial in defining Arkansas’s trajectory in the ultra-competitive SEC. Whether it’s a game-breaking return or a critical block on 4th and 1, all eyes will be on these rising Razorbacks who are now national names.
One makes plays in open space. The other wins in the trenches. Together, they’re setting the tone for a program hungry to make noise.