The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has revealed its 2024 Football All-Conference selections and annual superlative awards, celebrating standout performances from the season.

The honors highlight six individual players and one coach whose achievements defined the year.

Offensive Player of the Year

Jada Byers of Virginia Union University shattered records during his senior season, becoming the school’s all-time leader in rushing yards (5,311) and touchdowns (70). Byers set a single-game record with 324 yards and six touchdowns against Bowie State. He also led the conference with 1,497 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, earning him CIAA Offensive Back of the Week honors four times.

Defensive Player of the Year

Johnson C. Smith University’s Benari Black anchored one of the conference’s best defenses, leading with 113 tackles, the only player to surpass 100. Black added three sacks and three pass breakups, earning recognition as CIAA Linebacker of the Week.

Offensive Rookie of the Year

Micah Robinson of Bowie State made an immediate impact, ranking fifth in the conference in rushing yards (656) and scoring five touchdowns. Robinson also contributed 125 receiving yards and two touchdowns, earning two weekly CIAA honors.

Defensive Rookie of the Year

Virginia State University’s Marquis Edmond played a crucial role for the Trojans in his freshman year. Edmond tallied 31 tackles, a pass breakup, and a forced fumble, helping Virginia State field the CIAA’s top scoring defense and finish eighth nationally.

Lineman of the Year

Virginia State’s Bruno Onwuazor dominated the offensive line, allowing only one pass pressure all season while grading out at 95%. His efforts helped the Trojans rank second in the conference in scoring offense (32 points per game).

Special Teams Player of the Year

Zyaire Tart of Lincoln University (PA) excelled as a kick returner, amassing nearly 700 yards, including a career-long 80-yard return.

Coach of the Year

Maurice Flowers of Johnson C. Smith University earned the top coaching honor after leading the Golden Bulls to an 8-2 season, highlighted by an 8-0 start. Under Flowers, the team boasted a formidable defense, allowing 17 or fewer points in nine games.

All-CIAA First Team Highlights

The first team featured standout players like Byers, tight end Kameron King (Fayetteville), and quarterback Darius Ocean (Johnson C. Smith). On defense, Benari Black (JCSU) and Isaac Anderson (Virginia Union) were among the honorees.

Second Team Recognitions

Virginia Union’s Kalen Carver and Virginia State’s Romelo Williams headlined the second team, which also included emerging talents like Bowie State’s Micah Robinson.

For the full list of All-CIAA honorees, visit the conference’s official website.