MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois senior Kieron James (Bradenton, Fla./Southeast) was one of four defensive backs from the Missouri Valley Football Conference selected to the College Football Performance Awards preseason watch list. The CFPA announced the defensive backs list on Monday (June 11) as part of its weekly position announcement this summer.

James led the Leathernecks with three of the team's eight interceptions last year while breaking up seven passes. An Honorable Mention All-MVFC selection last year, he recorded a personal-high 45 tackles playing in all 11 games and recovered a fumble.

One of five returning seniors in the secondary, James enters his final year with four career interceptions and 119 tackles in 34 games played (26 starts).

The Leathernecks open the season at Hanson Field on Thursday, August 30th, against Butler. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tickets are available by calling (309) 298-1190 or on the website at www.GoLeathernecks.com.

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