AAC Places Five on the 2024 NAIA All-America Teams

WALESKA, Ga. - The Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) landed five players on the 2024 2024 AFCA NAIA Coaches' All-America Teams announced today by the American Football Coaches Association.

The AFCA recognizes the first and second teams, while the NAIA adds the third team honors.

Jordan Scott of Pikeville and Quincy Robinson of Bluefield made the first team, while Lee Kirkland of Pikeville landed on the second team. Cortez Thomas of Point and Tyress McKey of Reinhardt earned spots on the third team.

Scott, an offensive lineman, anchored the Pikeville line as the Bears ranked third in the NAIA in yards per game at 500.1. Pikeville amassed 6,001 yards in total offense this season with 4,054 coming through the air and 1,947 on the ground. The Bears tallied 498 points for a 41.5 points-per-game average, ranking them 11th in the NAIA.

Robinson, a defensive lineman, led the NAIA in sacks (15) and fumble recoveries (4). The Appalachian Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year, Robinson also added 41 solo tackles, 27 assists, 21.5 tackles for loss, and forced six fumbles from his defensive lineman position.

Kirkland, a quarterback, ranks second in the NAIA in passing yards per game (330.2) and third in passing touchdowns (40). He completed 368-of-556 passes for 3,962 yards. Kirkland also rushed for 294 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Thomas, a defensive lineman, tied for second in the AAC in sacks with 10.0 for 63 yards. He amassed 51 total stops and an NAIA-leading 25.0 tackles for a loss of 109 yards.

McKey, a running back and return specialist, tied the NAIA records for the most touchdowns by a kickoff return in a game (2) and a season (4). He returned 15 kickoffs for 520 yards, averaging 34.7 per return. McKey also returned two punts for 81 yards and one touchdown. He rushed for 279 yards and three touchdowns on 45 carries.

To view the entire NAIA All-America Team, click here.