ASU Football Players Excel in Elite Honors College Program

Eight Arizona State University football players are balancing top-tier athletics with elite academics. They are currently enrolled in Barrett, The Honors College, the university’s most selective academic program. This dual commitment showcases a new model for the modern student-athlete.

Head Coach Kenny Dillingham is actively championing this initiative. He is increasing recruitment of academically strong players to integrate the football program with the university’s scholarly mission.

A Demanding Dual Path for Student-Athletes

The eight players are Keith Abney II, Kyson Brown, Martell Hughes, Cory Butler, Cameron Dyer, Kanyon Floyd, Isaiah Iosefa, and Uriah Neloms. Their daily schedules are a rigorous blend of football practice, film study, and demanding honors coursework. This requires exceptional time management and discipline.

For roommates Abney and Brown, the journey began in their freshman year. They live together in the Barrett dormitories, creating a built-in support system. “We’re still roommates, so if I need help with something, we’re always helping each other stay on top of our work,” Abney told Cronkite News.

Dedicated Support System for Academic Success

These athletes do not navigate this challenging path alone. The Barrett Honors College provides a dedicated advising team that meets with them every two weeks. These sessions are crucial for managing course loads and ensuring NCAA eligibility is maintained.

Courtney Skipper, an academic coordinator with 19 years of experience, plays a key role. “That’s what my role is: to remind all these young men you’re more than a football player,” she said. She emphasizes that athletic and academic excellence are not mutually exclusive goals.

A Strategic Shift in Football Recruiting

Coach Dillingham has made academic achievement a cornerstone of his recruiting philosophy. He frequently highlights players in the honors program as proof that intelligence is a valuable asset on the field. His goal is to significantly increase the number of Barrett students on the team in future seasons.

This strategy is already paying off during campus visits. Assistant coaches actively encourage top academic recruits to apply to Barrett. For recruit Martell Hughes, this unique offering made ASU stand out from other universities he considered.

Honoring Family and Building a Future

For many of these players, the commitment to academics runs deep. Hughes was raised in a family that always put “school first, sports second.” He sees his Barrett enrollment as a way to honor his family’s values and secure his future beyond football.

This perspective is shared by his teammates. They view the demanding honors curriculum as an investment in their long-term careers. It prepares them for life after their final snap on the field.

The success of these eight Sun Devils is reshaping the identity of the ASU football program. It demonstrates that elite athletic performance and rigorous academic pursuit can powerfully coexist. This initiative is building a stronger, more versatile team for the future.

Info at your fingertips

How many ASU football players are in Barrett Honors College?

There are currently eight ASU football players enrolled in Barrett, The Honors College. The program includes players like Keith Abney II and Martell Hughes.

What support do these student-athletes receive?

They meet bi-weekly with specialized academic advisors from Barrett. These advisors help manage their coursework and ensure they meet all NCAA eligibility requirements.

Is ASU recruiting more academically-focused players?

Yes, Head Coach Kenny Dillingham is prioritizing the recruitment of academically strong athletes. His goal is to increase the number of Barrett students on the football roster in the coming years.

Why do players choose to join the honors program?

Many players say it prepares them for careers after football. It also allows them to honor their families’ strong emphasis on academic achievement.

What is the biggest challenge they face?

The largest challenge is managing their time between a full football schedule and a demanding honors curriculum. Careful planning and dedicated study time are essential for success.