Charlotte, NC – Livingstone College capped off a competitive 2025 football season with four players earning All-CIAA honors, underscoring a year of growth and resilience for the Blue Bears. The team finished 5-5 overall and 3-4 in conference play, marking back-to-back winning seasons in CIAA competition for the first time in over a decade.

The highlight of the postseason accolades was Kenyon Garner, who was named CIAA Defensive Player of the Year. Garner, a sophomore from Okeechobee, Florida, dominated on the defensive front, leading all of Division II in sacks and tackles for loss. He finished the season with 54 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, and 14 sacks, consistently commanding double teams and redefining defensive excellence in Salisbury.

2025-CIAA First Team

Defensive Line: Kenyon Garner (Okeechobee, FL)

CIAA All-Rookie

Offensive All-Rookie 

Javen Parker, a freshman running back from Atlanta, GA, made an immediate impact in his first season with Livingstone College. Parker displayed maturity and explosiveness, quickly becoming the centerpiece of the Blue Bears' rushing attack. In his rookie campaign, Parker played in 10 games, carrying the ball 123 times for 657 yards gained. He averaged 5.0 yards per carry, scored 3 touchdowns, and recorded a season-long run of 53 yards, averaging 61.9 yards per game.

Defensive All-Rookie

Malachi Adkins, a freshman safety from Clayton, NC, brought energy and versatility to the Blue Bears' secondary in his first season. In seven games, Adkins recorded 31 tackles, including 25 solo stops, and added 1 pass breakup. His ability to read plays and provide support in coverage and run defense made him a valuable piece of Livingstone's defensive rotation. While his rookie stats reflect a developing role, Adkins' instincts and athleticism point to a bright future in Salisbury.

Joshua Jackson, a freshman from Ruther Glen, VA, emerged as a physical and versatile defender for Livingstone College in his first season. In 10 games, Jackson recorded 24 tackles (14 solo), including 5.5 tackles for loss for 32 yards and 3 sacks for 26 yards. He added 2 pass breakups, 2 quarterback hurries, and 3 forced fumbles, showcasing his knack for creating turnovers and applying pressure. Jackson's aggressive style and playmaking ability made him one of the most impactful freshmen in the CIAA.

These honors reflect the depth of talent and commitment within the Blue Bears program, signaling a bright future as Livingstone continues to build momentum in the CIAA.