Two UK football players named to preseason All-American watch lists

Duo of Wildcats both make two preseason lists together

August 14, 2024

Forrest Tucker,

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW)- Defensive lineman Deone Walker and wide receiver Barion Brown are tabbed as preseason All-Americans for the 2024 season.

Both were given the recognition by the Sporting News and USA Today. Walker was given a nod to ESPN’s All-American team as well.

Deone Walker

The 6 foot 6 348-pound lineman hails from Detroit, Michigan and led the Wildcats in tackles for loss, sacks and quarterback hurries.

These are not Walkers only selections to a prestigious preseason watch list. He also is on the following watch lists.

Lott IMPACT Trophy
Bronko Nagurski Trophy
Outland Trophy
Chuck Bednarik Award
Walter Camp All-American (second team)
Athlon Sports All-American (second team)
Phil Steele All-American (second team)

Barion Brown

Brown’s recognition comes on the heels of a season when he returned three kickoffs for touchdowns. Those scores set a new UK single season record and tied an SEC record.

He also got it done on offense. The Nashville, Tennessee native had a team-high 43 catches for 539 yards and four scores. Brown also rushed 12 times for over 140 yards and one touchdown.

He is also on a laundry list of preseason watch lists.