Carbondale Reporter

Ten former Southern Illinois University football players have been named to the Missouri Valley Football Conference's 40th Anniversary Team. The announcement was made on Tuesday, recognizing these athletes for their outstanding contributions during their college careers.

The selected players include safety Jeremy Chinn, kicker Craig Coffin, wide receiver Cornell Craig, punter Mark Gagliano, running back Brandon Jacobs, tight end Damon Jones, running back Tom Koutsos, tight end MyCole Pruitt, quarterback Joel Sambursky and linebacker Bart Scott.

Jeremy Chinn played from 2016 to 2019 and was a four-year starter. He earned Consensus All-American honors and was a finalist for the Buchanan Award in his senior year. "A second-round draft pick of the Carolina Panthers," Chinn has completed five seasons in the NFL with 441 career tackles.

Craig Coffin set records as a placekicker from 2003 to 2006. He scored 379 points over his career and maintained nearly an 80 percent success rate on field goals. Coffin was recognized as a two-time All-American.

Cornell Craig established multiple receiving records at SIU between 1996 and 1999. In his final year, he received national recognition as Division I-AA Player of the Year.

Mark Gagliano was acknowledged as one of the best punters in school history during his tenure from 1993 to 1996. He achieved First-Team All-American status in his senior year.

Brandon Jacobs had a standout season in 2004, leading his team to an undefeated league season and earning First-Team All-American honors. "A fourth-round pick of the New York Giants," Jacobs played nine seasons in the NFL.

Damon Jones played tight end from 1994 to 1996 and was selected for three All-Conference teams before being drafted into the NFL by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Tom Koutsos rushed for over 4,700 yards during his time at SIU from 1999 to 2003. His efforts helped lead the team to its first playoff appearance in two decades.

MyCole Pruitt set school records for pass receptions between 2011 and 2014 and recently completed ten seasons in the NFL after being drafted in the fifth round.

Joel Sambursky set numerous passing records while playing from 2002 to 2005. He led Southern Illinois University to three conference championships and playoff appearances.

Bart Scott ranks among SIU's leaders in tackles and sacks from his time between 1998 and 2001. After joining the Baltimore Ravens as an undrafted free agent, Scott enjoyed an eleven-year NFL career that included a Pro Bowl appearance. He is now co-hosting "Bart & Hahn" on ESPN Radio in New York City.

The MVFC's anniversary team selections were determined through nominations by school SIDs along with fan voting.