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LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — UNLV quarterback Alex Orji has been named a member of the official watch list for the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy.
The Wuerffel Foundation announced 113 nominees for the honor, which recognizes FBS players who lead through community service while excelling in the classroom and on the field. As college football’s premier award for community service, the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy recognizes student-athletes who use their platforms to serve others and make a positive impact in their communities.
Named after Danny Wuerffel, the 1996 Heisman Trophy winner and former University of Florida quarterback, the award reflects his lifelong commitment to leadership, service and unity.
“It’s an honor to recognize these student-athletes for the difference they are making in the lives of others,” Wuerffel said. “Their commitment to service demonstrates the powerful impact college athletes can have both on and off the field.”
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Orji, a senior from Sachse, Texas, returns for his second season this fall with the Rebels. The former Michigan transfer started UNLV’s first game at quarterback in 2025 but suffered a season-ending injury in Game Three vs. UCLA.
The squad’s top community service performer off the field regularly volunteers his time to local charity foundation Goodie Two Shoes along with staffing multiple events across the calendar, including Build A Bed, Three Square Food Bank and Nevada Reading Week. He also was previously announced as a nominee for the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.
The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists will be selected by the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy National Selection Committee, with input from a fan vote. The 2026 recipient will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show on December 11, and also serve as captain of the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. The 2026 recipient and finalists will be invited to join Wuerffel in New York City for Heisman Trophy events, including the Wuerffel Foundation’s Picklebowl: Heisman Edition. The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will follow in February 2027 at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.
Under the direction of second-year head coach Dan Mullen, Orji and the Rebels will kick off their 59th season of football August 29 by hosting Memphis in a highly anticipated Week Zero national matchup on FOX TV.
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