FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Arkansas offensive lineman Fernando Carmona Jr. and defensive tackle Cam Ball have been named to the Preseason All-SEC teams by the league’s coaches, the league announced Tuesday.
Carmona, a senior and transfer from San Jose State, was selected to the All-SEC First Team after starting every game at left tackle for the Razorbacks last season.
Ball, a senior from Atlanta, was named to the Third Team following a breakout 2024 campaign in which he recorded a career-high 47 tackles, including four tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks.
Ball, who joined Arkansas in 2021, is expected to start on the defensive line this season. He said he turned down offers from other programs after the 2024 season, opting to remain with the Razorbacks.
“I had opportunities to leave, but it was no point to just pack up and go for a matter of a year or so, and lose all the connections and relationships I built in this state,” Ball said last week. “The people. I love the people here in Arkansas. Not only in Fayetteville, but I’ve been all around Arkansas and I just love this state in general.”
Carmona moved from left tackle to left guard this offseason, making way for transfer Corey Robinson II. The coaching staff praised his adaptability and experience.
“Fernando’s one of those guys you just trust,” Arkansas coach Sam Pittman said. “He brings experience, but it’s his leadership that sets the tone for the whole offensive line.”
Ball’s decision to stay at Arkansas was significant for a program that has seen several players depart via the transfer portal in recent years.
“Cam’s presence means everything to our defense,” defensive coordinator Travis Williams said. “He’s the heartbeat up front and a mentor to the younger guys.”
The Razorbacks finished 4-8 last season and are looking for improvement as Pittman enters his fifth year as head coach. Arkansas opens its season Aug. 30 against Alabama A&M at Razorback Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 3:15 p.m. on the SEC Network.
Both Carmona and Ball are in their final seasons of eligibility. Carmona was named SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week twice in 2024 and was selected to the Outland Trophy watch list. Ball has played in 37 games at Arkansas, starting 17.
The SEC preseason teams are determined by votes from the league’s coaches ahead of each season. Coaches are not allowed to vote for their own players.
Arkansas will look to its veteran leaders as it navigates a challenging SEC schedule that includes games against LSU, Alabama, and Texas A&M.
“It’s great to be recognized, but I’m here to win games,” Carmona said. “That’s the only thing that matters, what we do as a team.”
The Razorbacks’ preseason accolades highlight key players as Arkansas seeks to rebound and compete in the SEC this fall.
