New Haven football has secured five spots on the Phil Steele Preseason All-NEC Teams for the upcoming 2026 season, with AJ Duffy named Offensive Player of the Year. Duffy excelled in 2025, posting impressive stats in passing yards, touchdowns, and rushing contributions over just ten games. Alongside Duffy, teammates Zaon Laney and Liam Quigley also earned recognition on the First Team, showcasing a strong lineup for the Chargers.

By the Numbers
  • AJ Duffy: 2,399 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, 59.4% completion rate in 10 games.
  • Zaon Laney: 346 rushing yards on 51 carries, averaging 6.8 yards per carry with 4 touchdowns.
  • Brodie Williams: 67 total tackles, including 8.5 tackles for loss and 3 interceptions.
State of Play
  • Five New Haven players recognized in the preseason rankings highlight the team's competitive strength in the NEC.
  • AJ Duffy's performance solidifies his role as a key player for the upcoming season.
  • Fans can purchase tickets for the 2026 season at newhavenchargers.com/tickets.
What's Next

As the season approaches, New Haven Football aims to build on its strong framework of returning talent and continue its progress in the NEC. The full season schedule will dictate opportunities for the Chargers to leverage their preseason accolades into impactful performances on the field.

Bottom Line

New Haven football's recognition in the Phil Steele Preseason All-NEC Teams emphasizes their potential for a strong campaign ahead. With key players like Duffy leading the charge, the Chargers could emerge as significant contenders in the NEC this season.