Three Bulldogs named to Preseason All-NEC team

VIRTUALLY, N.J. – Three members of the Bryant University football team – Andre Brackett, Luke Samperi and Mike Andrejco – were named to the Preseason All-NEC team that was announced during Thursday's Northeast Conference Virtual Media Day.

Brackett was listed as a return specialist, Samperi a kicker and Andrejco was one of five offensive linemen selected.

One of the league's premier corners, Brackett picks up preseason honors as one of the NEC's best returners entering the 2020 season. Brackett made his eight kick returns count in 2019, finishing with 252 return yards (31.5 average) and a touchdown. The touchdown was an electrifying 95-yarder to open the Bulldogs' nationally-televised game against Long Island. Brackett also posted career highs in tackles (56) and interceptions (3) last fall.

Samperi was a Second Team All-NEC kicker last fall after tying the Bryant single-season record with 11 field goals. After earning a scholarship prior to the start of the season, Samperi went 11-for-14 in field goal attempts and 20-of-22 in PAT attempts to become just the second kicker in DI program history to earn all-league honors. Samperi was automatic inside 40 yards, making all eight of his attempts. He also added a career-high 50-yarder, becoming just the second kicker in program history to make a field goal of 50+ yards.

Andrejco will be the anchor of Bryant's offensive line this fall. The New Jersey native has appeared in all but one game over the course of his three seasons, starting 22 of the last 23. Andrejco was a Phil Steele Third Team All-NEC selection in 2018.

In addition, the NEC released the 2020 coaches poll. Defending champion Central Connecticut was the unanimous favorite and was followed by Duquesne and Sacred Heart. Bryant was picked sixth behind Saint Francis U and Wagner. Long Island was slotted seventh.