Alcorn’s Haney Named to Preseason Watch List for HBCU Defensive Back Award

OKLAHOMA CITY — Alcorn State University defensive back Tayvion Haney has been named to the Aeneas Williams Award 2026 Preseason Watch List, announced Wednesday by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame. The list highlights 16 of the nation’s top defensive backs from HBCU Division I football.

The preseason watch list is curated by a screening committee in partnership with DraftHBCUPlayers and the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award. It is not final, and players may be added as the season progresses based on their performance.

Haney, a 6-foot-1, 180-pound senior from Little Rock, Arkansas, signed with Alcorn State in December 2022 after playing at Parkview High School. He was named to the Southwestern Athletic Conference preseason second team as a defensive back during the league’s media day in July.

Last season, Haney recorded 29 tackles, including 23 solo stops, and deflected six passes — the second most on the team. His efforts helped him finish ninth on the team in total tackles for the Braves.

The Aeneas Williams Award, established in 2022 and presented by the Chickasaw Nation, honors the best defensive back in HBCU Division I football. It recognizes performance on the field, athletic ability, and character. Named after Football Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams, the award celebrates HBCUs’ rich football tradition.

The award presentation occurs annually in Oklahoma City during the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet, which draws more than 600 supporters, including celebrities and dignitaries. Past winners and current recipients attend the event each year.

Alcorn State opens its season on Saturday, Aug. 29, hosting Miles at Jack Spinks – Marino Casem Stadium at 6 p.m. Fans are encouraged to follow Braves Sports on Twitter (@BravesSports), Instagram (@AlcornSports), and YouTube (Braves Sports Network) for updates and behind-the-scenes content.

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