Irish offensive lineman named to freshman of the year award watchlist
As sophomore offensive lineman Will Black emerges as a potential starter for the Irish, he has been named to a preseason watchlist for an award
The 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award watchlist has been unveiled, and Notre Dame's sophomore offensive lineman Will Black has been included in the prestigious group. This award honors the finest freshman in college football, honoring the legacy of former Alabama All-American and Seattle Seahawks Pro Bowler Shaun Alexander.
Notre Dame Athletics revealed that Black was selected to the list, despite being only a sophomore, as he is set to become a starter on the Irish's offensive line for the upcoming season. Although he appeared in just three games during the previous year, Black made a significant impact as a freshman, helping the team achieve over 500 yards of offense, including a remarkable 249 rushing yards, while also preventing any sacks.
Black's impressive performance in Notre Dame's opening game against Navy, a 49-10 victory, demonstrated his prowess, as he recorded more than 500 rushing yards and did not allow a single sack. The most outstanding freshman in college football has been named to the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Watch List, with Will Black taking center stage.
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