UMaine Football has two Black Bears named as Phil Steele preseason All-Americans

Iliano and Tremblay Named Phil Steele Preseason All-Americans

The University of Maine football program is receiving increased national respect heading into the 2026 season, with two Black Bears earning preseason All-American recognition.

The honors highlight the continued growth of a program looking to establish itself as one of the top contenders in the CAA under head coach Jordan Stevens.

Offensive lineman, redshirt junior, Anthony Iliano collects the honor after being named a Stats Perform FCS Preseason Third-Team All-American. Iliano returns as one of the anchors of Maine's offensive line after earning Second Team All-CAA honors last season while helping lead a unit that allowed just 18 sacks throughout the 2025 campaign.

Joining Iliano among the nation's top preseason selections is another standout Black Bear, Samuel Tremblay. Tremblay proved to be one of the most accurate kickers in the nation last year by percentages. He went 9 for 10 on field goal attempts including a 45 yarder at Merrimack. Equally as valuable in securing the extra point, Tremblay went 35 for 36 on PAT's

This only adds to the excitement surrounding a roster that returns significant talent on both sides of the football.

The recognition comes during an offseason where expectations are rising in Orono. Maine placed four players on the Preseason All-CAA team, including Iliano and fellow offensive lineman Andrew Kocan, while also earning representation on defense.

With a challenging schedule ahead and the CAA continuing to be one of the strongest conferences in the FCS, Maine will rely on its veteran leadership and nationally recognized talent to take another step forward.

For a program built on toughness and development, preseason honors are another sign that the Black Bears are earning respect beyond the borders of Maine. The football season will kickoff August 27th at Towson University.