McLean County Times

Illinois State University saw two of its football players, Tye Niekamp and Keondre Jackson, earn First-Team honors in the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) for their performances this season. In total, 11 Redbirds were recognized as All-MVFC performers in the annual selection process conducted by the league's head coaches, media members, and sports information directors.

Niekamp and Jackson were acknowledged for their defensive contributions. Joining them with Second-Team honors were wide receiver Daniel Sobkowicz, cornerback Mark Cannon Jr., and defensive tackle Jake Anderson. Quarterback Tommy Rittenhouse, linebacker Amir Abdullah, offensive linemen JJ Guedet and Ryan Gudaitis, running back Wenkers Wright, and wide receiver Xavier Loyd received Honorable Mentions.

Niekamp finished third in the MVFC Defensive Player of the Year voting. He earned his first All-MVFC First Team recognition after previously being named a Second Team selection and 2023 MVFC Freshman of the Year. Niekamp led Illinois State with 99 tackles during the regular season and was second in the conference in that category. He also ranked fourth in tackles-for-loss with 10.5 and tied for leading interceptions on his team with three.

Jackson achieved First-Team status for the first time following an Honorable Mention in 2023. His performance included 85 tackles during the regular season along with notable statistics such as four pass breakups and two forced fumbles.

Sobkowicz received Second-Team honors for a second consecutive year. He led Illinois State with 861 receiving yards during regular play, placing fourth in the MVFC overall.

Anderson also gained his first All-MVFC honor as a Second Team selection due to his solid defensive record including 56 tackles during regular games.

Cannon tied for league-leading interceptions at three while making significant contributions defensively that earned him a spot on the Second Team.

The MVFC will continue to reveal end-of-year awards with announcements about its All-Newcomer Team forthcoming on Tuesday.