Diggins named Preseason All-American, anchors Bears’ offensive line

CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas senior offensive lineman Will Diggins has been named to the Stats Perform FCS Preseason All-American Third Team, highlighting a list of Bears players expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming 2025 season.

Diggins, a Bryant, Ark., native, returns as one of the most experienced players on the Bears’ roster. The 6-foot-4, 325-pound lineman has started more than 60 games in his college career, helping anchor an offensive front that consistently ranks among the best in the United Athletic Conference.

“It’s an honor, but my job’s just getting started,” Diggins said Tuesday. “Individual recognition is nice, but I’m more focused on what we can accomplish as a team this year.”

UCA opens its season at Missouri, presenting an early opportunity for Diggins and the Bears to test themselves against a Southeastern Conference opponent. The Bears’ schedule also includes three nonconference games and eight UAC matchups as they look to build on last season’s 3.7 yards per carry rushing average.

“Will is a unique player that is going to be in the conversation for every major honor this year,” coach Nathan Brown said. “He’s the kind of guy you build a program around. He’s tough, smart, and his teammates feed off his energy.”

Diggins is joined by senior offensive lineman Jamal Mull among UCA’s preseason all-conference honorees, with five Bears earning UAC preseason recognition. The group’s continuity and experience are seen as central to the team’s hopes of contending for a conference title and postseason berth.

Since joining Division I in 2006, UCA has steadily risen in the FCS ranks, making multiple playoff appearances and establishing a reputation for physical, disciplined football. Diggins credits his upbringing in Bryant for instilling the work ethic that has become his trademark.

“I was always taught to earn everything,” Diggins said. “That’s how we do it in Arkansas. You put in the work, you get the results.”

Diggins’ approach is evident both in the weight room and on the field, where teammates describe him as a leader who holds others accountable.

“He’s a guy who sets the tone, who won’t let anybody get away with less than their best,” Mull said. “If you mess up, he’ll let you know. But he’ll also be the first to pick you up after.”

With the preseason honors in hand, Diggins remains focused on team goals. “We want to win this conference. We want to make a run in the playoffs. That’s what we talk about every day,” he said.

The Bears will rely on Diggins’s experience and leadership as they navigate a challenging schedule and pursue postseason success.

“He’s the guy you want in your corner when things get tough,” Brown said. “And things are going to get tough. That’s football.”

The 2025 season opens this fall, with Diggins and the Bears aiming to prove they belong among the FCS elite.