Three Razorbacks Named Athlon Preseason All-Americans

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas had three players named to Athlon’s preseason All-American teams, the national publication announced Tuesday. Tight end Hunter Henry was a first team selection, while offensive lineman Sebastian Tretola earned second team honors and offensive lineman Denver Kirkland was recognized on the fourth team.

Henry caught 37 passes for 513 yards as a sophomore in 2014 and was named All-SEC second team by the conference’s coaches. His marks in receptions and receiving yards both ranked third among the league’s tight ends. He enters his third season on The Hill with 55 career receptions for 922 yards and six touchdowns. Henry also earned All-SEC first team recognition from Athlon and was a preseason fourth team All-American honors by Phil Steele entering the 2015 season.

Tretola started 11 games at left guard for Arkansas last season, his first with the Razorbacks. The junior college transfer played more than 690 snaps and did not allow a sack. He was tied for second on the team averaging a grade of 79 percent. The San Bernardino, Calif. native also showed his athleticism when he threw a 6-yard touchdown pass on a fake field goal against UAB.

Kirkland enters the 2015 campaign with 21 consecutive starts and has played all 25 games of his two-year career. He played the 2013 and 2014 seasons at right guard before moving to left tackle this offseason where he will be tasked with protecting the quarterback’s blind side. Kirkland played more than 750 snaps last year and allowed just one sack, grading out at 79 percent.

Hunter Henry’s Preseason Awards
– Athlon All-American (first team)
– Phil Steele All-American (fourth team)
– Athlon Sports All-SEC (first team)
– Phil Steele All-SEC (third team)

Sebastian Tretola’s Preseason Awards
– Athlon All-American (second team)
– Athlon Sports All-SEC (first team)
– Phil Steele All-SEC (third team)

Denver Kirkland’s Preseason Awards
– Sporting News All-American (first team)
– Athlon All-American (fourth team)
– Phil Steele All-SEC (second team)
– Athlon Sports All-SEC (second team)

The Razorbacks return 15 starters in 2015 and are a near-consensus preseason top 25 selection by the national media. The Arkansas home schedule is highlighted by 2013 national runner-up Auburn and Orange Bowl-participant Mississippi State. The home slate concludes with two-time defending SEC East champion Missouri.

Season ticket packages start at $300 in Fayetteville. Fans can also catch the Razorbacks take on Toledo on Sept. 12 in Little Rock for $55, which $10 less than last year’s game at War Memorial Stadium.

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