WACO, Texas – The American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) announced the 2021 NAIA All-America Awards on Monday afternoon. Siena Heights junior linebacker Kole Murlin was named to the second-team defense.
The AFCA has selected an All-America team since 1945 and currently selects teams in all five of its divisions. The AFCA All-America teams are unique as member coaches of the organization choose the team members.
Murlin has had a fantastic season as he leads the MSFA Mideast league with 112 tackles. His 12.4 tackles per game mark are currently third-most in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). He also registered 2.5 sacks, nine tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.
"Is very well respected by all of the coaches in our conference," said head coach Matt Kohn. "Kole is one of the smartest and most physical football players I have ever been around."
Murlin was an AFCA All-America Honorable Mention a year ago, and he adds this award to a resume that includes two MSFA Mid-East Defensive Player of the Year (2020 & 2021), NAIA All-America Honorable Mention (2020), three-time first-team All-MSFA, and the Thomas Emmet Sr. Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award.
Click here for the complete list of the 2021 AFCA NAIA All-America teams.
