Durham, N.C. (July 16, 2025)- The Virginia State football team was picked third in the CIAA Football Preseason Poll. 

Virginia Union and Johnson C. Smith were picked ahead of VSU, first and second respectfully.  Fayetteville State was selected right behind at fourth, and Winston-Salem State and Bowie State round out the top half of the poll. Livingstone, Shaw, Elizabeth City State, Lincoln (PA) and Bluefield State complete the preseason poll. 

The Trojans also lead the conference with seven All-CIAA Preseason Team members. Bruno Onwuazor and Tyleek McCoy represent the offensive side of the ball. Onwuazor was the CIAA Offensive Linemen of the Year in 2024. On defense Jayshaun Alston, Cameron Davis, KJ McNeil, Donavan Howard and Marquis Edmond earned the nod. Edmond was the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2024 and Howard was an All-CIAA First Team Performer a year ago.