BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Senior defensive lineman Khalil Johnson and sophomore linebacker Keonte Hampton were selected to the SWAC Preseason Second Team, as voted by the conference's head coaches and sports information directors.
 
Johnson, an anchor on the defensive line had a standout 2018 season and looks to close out his senior campaign on a strong note. The Jackson native and Provine High School graduate started and played in 10 games. He added 21 solo tackles to go with 21 assisted tackles for 40 total stops, 10 of which were for a loss. He also added three sacks and was a reason why the defense was among the best in the SWAC in 2018.
 
Hampton played his way into the starting lineup as a freshman and earned a role early in 2018. The West Point, Mississippi product earned HERO Sports Freshman All-American honors and started and played in all 10 games. He finished with a team-high 40 solo tackles, team-high 43 assisted tackles for a team-high 83 stops, 10.5 of which were for a loss.