LeRoy Vann named All-American

LeRoy Vann, a cornerback who returned punts and kicks for the Rattlers this season, was named a first team All-American for Football Championship Subdivision. Vann set or tied multiple return records for FAMU this year.

"Individually it brings him great recognition, but it brings recognition to Florida A&M University in a very positive way," coach Joe Taylor said. "It's going to help with our recruiting because young men are going to see that Florida A&M is where you can (play) and still get recognized."

Vann was the only player from the MEAC to make the team, while 19 other players from 12 FCS conferences were selected. The players were chosen by head football coaches and sports information directors.

Vann returned a kickoff 83 yards for a touchdown in the Rattlers' final game to cement his place as the NCAA record holder for combined return yards. After his final-game performance, he finished the season with 1,583 yards to rewrite the record which had stood since 1989.

During the season, Vann made 66 combined returns, breaking the NCAA record of 64 that Connecticut's Joe Markus set 27 years ago. He also tied the NCAA FCS for combined kick returns for touchdowns with six.

Vann also finished the season tied with David Lucas for the FAMU record for most kickoff returns in a season with three. He also set a FAMU single-season record with his 38 kickoff returns.

"He's creating a larger recognition base for himself (but) it goes to show no matter where you are, Football Championship Subdivision or Bowl Championship Series, if you work hard it will not go unnoticed."