Thomas, Greenberg Tabbed HERO Sports Preseason Group of Six All-Americans

HARRISONBURG, Va. – James Madison football standouts Amar Thomas and Zach Greenberg were selected to the 2026 HERO Sports Preseason Group of Six All-American team, as announced by the organization on Friday afternoon.

Thomas earned First Team Defense Preseason All-American honors, while Greenberg was named to the Second Team Offense. Back in July, both were voted to the Preseason All-Sun Belt First Team. This month, Greenberg has landed on the Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy watch lists, receiving recognition from both outlets for the first time in his career.

The duo account for two of the Dukes' five returning starters on the 2026 roster. Thomas started all 14 games as an edge rusher, while Greenberg started every contest at center.

Last year, four Dukes took home G5 All-America honors at the conclusion of the season: Wayne Knight (1st – All-Purpose), Pat McMurtrie (1st – Offensive Line), Trent Hendrick (1st – Linebacker), and Alonza Barnett III (3rd – Quarterback).

JMU opens the 2025 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, when it hosts Liberty. Action at Bridgeforth Stadium is slated for 12 p.m. and will air on ESPNU.

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