FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chosen One Sports Founder Ray Hardy Spotlights Fayetteville State Linebacker Matthew Leach as a Standout to Watch in the 2026 Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl

New Orleans LA — Ray Hardy, founder of Chosen One Sports and inductee of the American Football News Hall of Fame, is calling attention to one of the most promising defensive talents entering the national spotlight: Matthew Leach, standout linebacker for Fayetteville State University. Hardy says Leach is “most definitely one to watch” as he prepares to compete in the 2026 Black College Football Hall of Fame Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl, airing nationally on the NFL Network.

Leach, a 6’3”, 220-lb linebacker from Raeford, North Carolina, has built a reputation as a disciplined, high-IQ defender with the versatility and athleticism to excel at the next level. His journey includes a strong foundation at Barton College, where he was a three-year starter before transferring to Fayetteville State.

Matthew Leach: Career Highlights & Accomplishments

Fayetteville State University (CIAA)

Named CIAA Linebacker of the Week multiple times, including a dominant Week #9 performance with 12 tackles (6 solo) and key drive-ending stops against one of the conference’s top offenses.

Recognized for leadership and consistency on a Broncos defense known for physicality and discipline.

Majoring in Sports Fitness and Management, reflecting his long-term commitment to coaching and athlete development.

Barton College (Three-Year Starter)

Developed into a reliable, high-impact defensive presence, earning a starting role early in his collegiate career.

Built the foundation of his linebacker skill set, gap discipline, lateral quickness, and strong tackling fundamentals.

Ray Hardy’s Statement

“Matthew is the kind of athlete you don’t overlook. His discipline, his motor, and his ability to read the field make him a true standout. The Legacy Bowl is where the nation will finally see what we’ve already known — this young man is special.”

About the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl

The Black College Football Hall of Fame Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl is a postseason all-star game featuring the top NFL-draft-eligible players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The event celebrates Black college football excellence and is broadcast live on the NFL Network.

Media Contact

Monica Emery

MRE Media Works

Email: MREmediaworks@gmail.com