Marshall Football celebrated 11 players honored by Phil Steele Publications as 2026 Preseason All-Sun Belt Conference selections. Five players received First Team recognition, including quarterback Carlos Del Rio-Wilson, wide receiver Adrian Norton, tight end Toby Payne, offensive lineman Jalen Slappy, and defensive back Daytione Smith. Head coach Tony Gibson expressed pride in the team's recognition, emphasizing the talent set to return for the upcoming season. Del Rio-Wilson is a standout, leading all returning quarterbacks in production and rushing yards. Overall, this acknowledgment builds excitement ahead of Marshall's 2026 season.

By the Numbers
  • Carlos Del Rio-Wilson threw for 2,043 yards with 17 touchdowns in 2025.
  • Daytione Smith had 50 tackles and three interceptions, tying him for the best among returning SBC defensive players.
State of Play
  • Marshall boasts five First Team and six total All-SBC selections, indicating a strong competitive roster for 2026.
  • Del Rio-Wilson and his receiving core, including Payne and Norton, are expected to elevate the team's offensive performance.
What's Next

As Marshall gears up for the 2026 season, the performance of its honorees will be crucial in establishing the team鈥檚 dominance in the Sun Belt Conference. With heightened expectations, the Herd is poised for a strong season ahead.

Bottom Line

The recognition of Marshall's players reflects a promising outlook for the upcoming season. The team's key returning talents like Del Rio-Wilson will be pivotal in their pursuit of success in the Sun Belt, potentially positioning them as frontrunners.