MINNEAPOLIS - D3football.com today released the Preseason All-America lists for the 2026 football season. Following an outstanding junior campaign, senior linebacker Jason Bateman was named to the 2026 D3football.com Preseason All-America First Team.

Last fall, Bateman helped lead the Eagles to a 10-2 record in just their third season of competition, which included a MAC Championship and a trip to the third round of the NCAA Tournament. He finished the year with 97 tackles and a DIII-leading seven forced fumbles, and was part of a defense that led the MAC in nearly every major category.

The Upper Darby native earned All-America Honors from both the Associated Press and D3football.com, while also being named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. He was also nominated as a finalist for the Cliff Harris Award.

Eastern Football will look to build on its historic third season. The Eagles begin their 2026 campaign on the road at No. 24 Endicott on Saturday, Sept. 5.