June 15, 2009
FORT WORTH, Texas -- TCU defensive end
Jerry Hughes has been named a first-team preseason All-American by Sporting News and Walter Camp.
Ranked by Matt Hayes of Sporting News as the nation's 16th-best player, Hughes is also rated by the publication as the Mountain West Conference's top National Football League prospect.
Hughes was a consensus All-American in 2008 after leading the nation with 15 sacks and six forced fumbles. He also ranked in the top 10 in tackles for loss (19.5) and fumble recoveries (three). Hughes added two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. He was one of five finalists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, honoring the nation's top defensive player.
Joining Hughes on Sporting News' All-Mountain West Conference preseason team are cornerbacks Rafael Priest and Nick Sanders as well as offensive tackle Marshall Newhouse.
Priest and Sanders have started every game the last three seasons, while Newhouse has been in the starting lineup for each contest the last two campaigns.
Sanders is rated by Sporting News as the hardest hitter in the Mountain West Conference.
TCU's Jimmy Young is listed as the MWC's fastest receiver. He had 59 receptions for 988 yards and five touchdowns last season.
The Horned Frogs are ranked 24th in Sporting News' preseason top 25.
