CHARLESTON, Ill. (WAND) - The Eastern Illinois University football program will send 2 of their best returning players on each side of the ball to OVC Media Day in Nashville. Football coaches and players from conference programs will have a chance to address media on Friday, July 17.

Along with 5th year head coach Chris Wilkerson, the Panthers will be represented by running back Charles Kellom and linebacker Ja'Wuan Nickson.

During the 2025 season, Kellom was EIU's leading rusher, earning 762 yards on 191 carries. In the Panther's season-opening game, a 24-14 win against Dayton, the running back ran for for a season high 133 yards.

On the defensive-side, Nickson was voted second team All OVC-Big South. The linebacker ranked second on the team in total tackles in 2025, as well as fourth in the conference. In his junior season, he led the team with 8.5 tackles for loss.

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