DeLAND, Fla. — Stetson University defensive back Dylan Kelly has been named the Pioneer Football League Freshman of the Week following his performance in the Hatters' season opener at No. 3 South Dakota State, the league announced Sunday.
Kelly made an immediate impact in his Stetson debut, leading the Hatters with 12 total tackles, including six solo stops, while adding a pass breakup against the nationally ranked Jackrabbits.
The Trophy Club, Texas, native was active from the opening possession, recording five tackles and a pass breakup during the first quarter. He added four more stops in the second quarter to enter halftime with nine tackles before recording two in the third, including one on special teams, and another in the fourth.
Two of Kelly's tackles stopped the ball carrier for no gain.
The performance marked Kelly's first collegiate game with the Hatters after joining the program ahead of the 2026 season. His 12 tackles were the most by a Stetson defender in the season opener and earned him the PFL's first Freshman of the Week award of the 2026 campaign.
Kelly was one of four players recognized by the league Sunday. Presbyterian quarterback Landon Sharpe was named PFL Offensive Player of the Week, Dayton defensive back Javawn Brooks earned Defensive Player of the Week honors and Valparaiso return specialist Chris Gundy was selected as the Special Teams Player of the Week.
Stetson returns to DeLand for its home opener against Webber International on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Spec Martin Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
