DALLAS – Kennesaw State's reigning CUSA Co-Defensive Player of the Year LB
Baron Hopson and returning veteran starter OL
Nikola Milovac will join reigning CUSA Coach of the Year
Jerry Mack in representing the Owls at the 2026 Conference USA Football Kickoff on July 20-21 in Arlington, Texas.
After two years at the PGA of America Headquarters in Frisco, CUSA's football lidlifter will take place this summer at the Texas Live! Arena and the Loews Arlington Hotel & Convention Center in Arlington.
In addition to traditional press conferences and media availability on Tuesday, July 21, all participants will take part in a live ESPN+ show, hosted by ESPN's Mike Corey on Monday, July 20 within the Texas Live! Arena.
Hopson earned Co-DPOTY honors after finishing the regular season as KSU's leading tackler on CUSA's No. 3 scoring defensive team (25.1). He ranked second in the league with 138 tackles (9.9/game). He also finished with 9.0 tackles for loss, an interception and forced fumble.
Milovac returns to KSU's offensive front after starting all 14 games at right tackle for the Owls last season. Milovac helped lead the trenches to allow the second-fewest sacks in the regular season (17), despite playing two Power 4 teams, including the eventual-National Champion Indiana Hoosiers. In conference games, the Owls were even better allowing just 10 sacks in eight regular season games to rank second in CUSA.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
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