BEAUMONT, Texas – Lamar University running back and kick return specialist LaDamion McDowell has been named to the 2025 FCS Football Central Freshman All-American Team announced publication officials late Monday evening. McDowell received the honor as a kick returner and becomes the program's third freshman All-American in the past two seasons.
 
McDowell is one of nine players named to the team representing four other Southland Conference schools.
 
The 2025 team recognizes the nation's top freshman from across the FCS subdivision. The 62 players named come from 46 different programs.
 
A native of New Orleans, La., McDowell was a huge factor in the Cardinals run to the 2025 NCAA FCS Playoffs. Playing in all 13 games, McDowell took over the role as the team's kick returner early in the season and never looked back. McDowell led the Southland returning 22 kicks for 510 yards. He ended the year fourth in the conference averaging 23.2 yards per return.
 
McDowell also proved his value as a running back for the Red and White in 2025. He carried the ball 58 times for 365 yards and two scores during his rookie campaign. McDowell led the Cardinal running backs with a 6.3 yards per carry average.