PINE BLUFF, AR – The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football program is celebrating two major postseason honors as standout student-athletes Danarius Hilliard and Jaylen Jennings have been named to the 2025 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) All-Conference First Team. Their selections highlight the Golden Lions' rising competitiveness and the elite individual performances that defined this season.

Jennings Dominates as One of the SWAC's Premier Backs
Running back Jaylen Jennings put together one of the most dynamic offensive seasons in the conference. Jennings finished first in the SWAC in touchdowns with 11, establishing himself as one of the league's most explosive scoring threats. He also ranked second in rushing yards with 936 and second in rushing yards per game at 78.0, showcasing his consistency, strength, and big-play capability.
Jennings delivered four 100-yard rushing performances, including a signature outing against Lincoln University where he exploded for 226 rushing yards and four touchdowns, earning SWAC Player of the Week honors in Week Three. His production anchored UAPB's offensive attack and solidified him among the top rushers in the FCS.

Hilliard Leads UAPB Defense with Elite Production
On the defensive side, linebacker Danarius Hilliard earned First Team honors after emerging as one of the most dominant defenders in the SWAC. Hilliard finished the year first in the conference in tackles per game at 8.2, establishing himself as the SWAC's most consistent tackling force. He also ranked second in total tackles with 90 and tied for 10th in sacks with 3.5, demonstrating his ability to impact plays at every level of the defense.

Hilliard's standout performance came against Florida A&M, where he recorded a season-high 15 tackles, along with a tackle for loss and a sack. His relentless motor, physicality, and play-recognition skills anchored the Golden Lions' defensive unit throughout the season.