GREENVILLE, S,C. -- A quick look around the Southern Conference and it's apparent the returning quarterback fraternity is a small group.

Not at Furman.

The Paladins return their top three signal callers this fall, led by Tre Hedden (6-3, 228, So.) and also Carson Jones (6-1, 214, R-Jr.) and Nehuel Garcia (6-0, 202, R-So.).

"Having three guys with multiple years in our program now...we like that group," said Hendrix on Monday.

Hedden leads the way after stepping into the starting role three games into the 2024 season.  In passing for 1,767 yards and 13 touchdowns a year ago, he demonstrated a strong arm and several solid performances, highlighted by a 267-yard, two-touchdown passing display in a win over Stetson that netted him Stats Perform National Freshman of the Week honors.

He also engineered a 17-16 comeback road victory over The Citadel, leading the Paladins on fourth quarter touchdown drives covering 78 and 88 yards, capped by a game winning six-yard strike with a minute to go, and a 24-21 triumph over 21st-ranked East Tennessee State that saw him complete 23-of-28 passes for 210 yards and two scores.

He was also named to the SoCon All-Freshman Team, as selected by the coaches.

"Coming out the spring Tre was the leader at quarterback.  He had a good freshman season, and that experience, coupled with the work he put in the spring and summer, we believe will pay dividends in year two for him.  His work ethic is outstanding, and he is a solid leader."

Jones has appeared in 12 games, logged five starts, and passed for 1,186 yards and nine scores in his first two seasons of play.  He delivered critical second half play off the bench, passing for 139 yards and two touchdowns in Furman's 17-14 SoCon title clinching road victory over Chattanooga in 2023.

"Carson has had his best August since he's been here.  He and Tre are two guys we can play and depend on.  They both have a really good grasp of what we're trying to go, and hopefully now we will be better positioned to play to their strengths with a good supporting cast around them."

Garcia is back for his third year and has shown promise.

"Nehuel has had a good preseason but right now is our No. 3 guy.  He's probably the fastest in the group and has done some good things."

Also among the program veterans is Dixon Massingill (6-3, 200, Sr.).

"Dixon's a fourth year guy and a really smart player.  He can also serve as our holder."

The newest signal caller in August camp is Brady Geibel (6-3, 205, Fr.).

"Brady has really come on.  We had him in our camp.  There are limited opportunities for him out there right now, but he will get even better.  We're excited about his future here."