WACO, Texas – Fort Valley State University defensive back Darnell Stephens has been named a 2025 American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) First Team All-American.

Stephens was the lone representative from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) selected to the AFCA All-American teams.

The honor adds to an already stellar 2025 campaign for Stephens, who finished the season as the NCAA Division II national leader in pass breakups with 19. He also recorded 33 tackles and three interceptions, anchoring a standout defensive year.

Throughout the postseason, Stephens has amassed multiple accolades, including All-SIAC First Team Cornerback honors, an invitation to the HBCU Legacy Bowl, BOXTOROW All-American recognition, and a selection to the D2CCA All-Region team.