Leman Earns All-America Honor

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — University of Illinois linebacker J Leman is racking up more awards for his stellar play during the 2006 season, including his first All-America nod by SportsIllustrated.com. Leman was named honorable mention by the publication, which ranks him among the top-15 linebackers in the nation for the year.

Leman also was named second-team All-Big Ten, along with cornerback Alan Ball, by Scout.com and Vontae Davis picked up his third Freshman All-America award, from Scout.com.

Leman found himself in good company as an honorable mention pick alongside Brandon Siler of Florida, Dan Connor of Penn State, Buster Davis of Florida State and Vince Hall of Virginia Tech. Among the 15 linebackers selected to the All-America teams, Leman is one of eight underclassmen returning for the 2007 season.

Davis has been named to every Freshman All-America first-team this year and both Ball and Davis earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors from conference coaches and media.