Both college football players recognized for exceptional leadership and community service efforts
Category: Sports
Notre Dame junior cornerback Leonard Moore and Baylor fifth-year senior safety Michael Allen have both been named to the prestigious 2026 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award watch list, recognizing their exemplary leadership and commitment to their communities. The award, named after former NFL star Jason Witten, honors college football players who demonstrate courage, integrity, and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
Moore, a projected high first-round pick for the 2027 NFL Draft, has made a name for himself not just as a defender for the Fighting Irish but also as a respected teammate. He has already recorded five tackles, a pass breakup, and a pass deflection in the first two games of the 2026 season. Last year, he had an impressive sophomore campaign, tallying 31 tackles, a forced fumble, seven pass breakups, and five interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
Meanwhile, Allen, who leads Baylor's chapter of Uplifting Athletes, has dedicated over 100 hours to community service in Waco, Texas. His initiatives include assisting with food preparation for school lunches, building homes for underserved areas, and organizing toy drives. Notably, he has raised more than $10,000 for rare disease research through fundraising events, demonstrating his commitment to helping those in need.
The Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award emphasizes the importance of leadership in college football, with nominees required to exhibit exceptional character and dedication to community service. According to the award's description, it aims to honor players who embody the values demonstrated by Witten, a former NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year.
As part of the nomination process, schools nominate their candidates based on their contributions on and off the field. This year, Allen is among 89 candidates vying for the award. The selection committee will announce twenty semifinalists on October 13, 2026, followed by three finalists on December 14, 2026. The winner will be revealed at a ceremony in Spring 2027. The award recognizes individual achievements and aims to inspire others in the sport to engage in community service.
Both Moore and Allen exemplify the qualities the award seeks to promote. Moore's performance on the field has made him a standout player for the Fighting Irish, but it's his character and respect for teammates that have earned him this nomination. Similarly, Allen's academic excellence is notable; he holds a perfect 4.0 GPA in pursuit of a master's in business administration, having previously achieved a 3.96 GPA in his undergraduate studies.
Moore's contributions extend beyond the gridiron. His leadership qualities have been recognized by coaches and teammates alike, making him a model player for aspiring athletes. The respect he garners from those around him enhances his profile as a candidate for the Witten Award.
In comparison, Allen's community engagement is extensive. His role as Baylor's chapter leader for Uplifting Athletes has allowed him to leverage his position as a college athlete to raise awareness and funds for rare diseases, a cause he is passionate about. His efforts in the community benefit those in need and set a precedent for how athletes can use their platforms for good.
Both players have demonstrated that success in college football is measured not just by statistics but also by the impact they have on their communities. The emphasis on leadership and character in the Jason Witten Award aligns with the values instilled in both Moore and Allen, making them worthy candidates for this honor.
As the college football season progresses, both Moore and Allen will continue to showcase their talents on the field. Moore's performance will be closely watched as he aims to solidify his status as a top draft prospect for the upcoming NFL Draft. With his impressive statistics and leadership qualities, he is expected to play a key role in Notre Dame's campaign this season.
On the other hand, Allen's contributions off the field will remain a focal point as he balances his athletic commitments with his academic pursuits. His dedication to community service and leadership within Uplifting Athletes will likely continue to inspire his teammates and peers. As the award selection dates approach, both players will be hoping to make a lasting impression that could lead to semifinalist status.
The announcement of the twenty semifinalists for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award is set for October 13, 2026. Following that, the finalists will be determined on December 14, 2026. The culmination of this recognition will take place in Spring 2027, where the winner will be honored at a ceremony that celebrates excellence in leadership and community service.