For the University of Alabama, its football program now has 15 student-athletes and 16 individuals overall named to at least one preseason award watch list for this season.
Redshirt junior Chris Owens became the latest name on Thursday.
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The 6-foot-3, 315-pounder is preseason honoree for the Wuerffel Trophy, which is presented to the player “who best combines exemplary community service with academic and athletic achievement.”
Named after University of Florida quarterback, Danny Wuerffel, the honor highlights more of the student-athlete’s excellence off the field.
Alabama football on preseason award lists
HC Nick Saban: Bobby Dodd Trophy
QB Tua Tagovailoa: Maxwell Award, Davey O’Brien Award
RB Najee Harris: Maxwell Award, Doak Walker Award
WR Jerry Jeudy: Maxwell Award, Fred Biletnikoff Award
WR Henry Ruggs III: Fred Biletnikoff Award
WR Jaylen Waddle: Fred Biletnikoff Award
TE Miller Forristall: John Mackey Award
OL Alex Leatherwood: Outland Trophy
OL Jedrick Wills: Outland Trophy
OL Chris Owens: Wuerffel Trophy
DL Raekwon Davis: Chuck Bednarik Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy
ILB Dylan Moses: Butkus Award, Chuck Bednarik Award, Bronko Nagurksi Trophy
OLB Anfernee Jennings: Butkus Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy
OLB Terrell Lewis: Butkus Award
CB Trevon Diggs: Bronko Nagurski Trophy
SS Xavier McKinney: Jim Thrope Award
He is about to enter his first year as a starter at center for the Crimson Tide, but Owens has been a star in the Tuscaloosa community since arriving in 2016.
A native of Arlington, Texas, the former four-star has volunteered in nearly 20 different initiatives – with much of them being on impact today’s youth. He is big on reading and he’s visited several local elementary schools, including Tuscaloosa Magnet Elementary.
When is not bringing smiles to the faces of children in sharing his favorite books, the offensive lineman is preparing for a marquee year in football.
Owens has played in 16 career games as a reserve guard, tackle and center.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
