Eastern Illinois football offensive center Rahfeeq Katumbusi was named a first team Freshmen All-American by Phil Steele as the publication released its freshmen All-American teams over the winter break.
 
Katumbusi started 11 games for the Panthers at center after missing the season opener due to injury.  He helped anchor an offensive line that had six different offensive line starting combinations during his 11 starts at center.
 
He helped block for an offensive unit that set the EIU school single game passing yards record by a freshman quarterback with 411 yards.  Katumbusi earned second team All-OVC Big South honors at offensive line.
 
In addition, the publication listed its 2025 All-OVC Big South Football Teams
 
Mason Miller – 1^st Team Punter
Nic DiSanto – 2^nd Team Offensive Line
Tylan Foster – 2^nd Team Linebacker
Cooper Willman – 2^nd Team Punt Returner
Rahfeeq Katumbusi – 3^rd Team Offensive Line
Samuel Robles – 3^rd Team Defensive Line
Ja'Wuan Nickson – 3^rd Team Linebacker
Trevon Piggee – 4^th Team Defensive Line
Isaiah Houi – 4^th Team Defensive Back
Brett Galletti – 4^th Team Long Snapper