Arkansas wide receiver and return specialist Kam Shanks has been named a First-Team Preseason All-American by The Sporting News at the punt returner position, according to an announcement made Wednesday.
Shanks joins the Razorbacks after two seasons at UAB. In 2024, as a redshirt freshman, he led all FBS players in punt return yards with 329, averaged 20.6 yards per return, and scored two punt return touchdowns. He was also a finalist for the Jet Award, which recognizes the top return specialist in college football. Shanks had notable performances as a receiver as well, including two games with over 100 receiving yards: one against Army on October 12 with nine catches for 119 yards, and another against Tulsa on November 2 where he set career highs with 153 receiving yards and three touchdowns.
The recognition from The Sporting News is among several preseason honors for Shanks entering the 2025 season. He has been included on watch lists for both the Jet Award and Paul Hornung Award (given to the nation’s most versatile players) and was named First-Team Preseason All-SEC as a punt returner by Phil Steele.
Head Coach Sam Pittman commented on preparations for the upcoming season: “Head Coach Sam Pittman and the Hogs opened preseason practice last week with the first of 25 practices leading into the season opener. The Razorbacks kick off the 2025 season on Saturday, Aug. 30, when they welcome Alabama A&M to Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium for a 3:15 p.m. matchup on SEC Network.”
For those seeking ticket information for Arkansas football games, details are available through the Razorback Ticket Center at 479.575.5151 or online.
