Willie Rodriguez Named Witten Award Semifinalist
The University of Kentucky tight end earns recognition for his leadership and performance on the field.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
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University of Kentucky junior Willie Rodriguez has been named a semifinalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year award. The selection committee chose Rodriguez based on his demonstration of integrity, courage, and leadership both on and off the field.
Why it matters
The honor highlights the commitment of student-athletes to excellence beyond their sport. The award winner receives a $10,000 contribution from the SCORE Foundation to be donated to their university's athletic scholarship fund.
Rodriguez has recorded 33 receptions for 257 yards and three touchdowns during the 2026 season. Across his 31-game career, he has logged 17 starts with a total of 661 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
The players
Willie Rodriguez
He is a junior management major at the University of Kentucky who has played in 31 games.
Jason Witten
He is a former professional football player whose namesake award recognizes leadership and integrity.
SCORE Foundation
This organization presents the scholarship contribution associated with the annual collegiate award.
Josh Paschal
He is a former University of Kentucky player who won the award in 2021.
J.J. Weaver
He is a former University of Kentucky player who won the award in 2024.
The details
Selection committee members evaluated candidates based on athletic performance and personal character to compile the list. Rodriguez, a management major at the University of Kentucky, is among those considered for the honor previously held by former Wildcats Josh Paschal and J.J. Weaver.
Timeline
October 21, 2026: Rodriguez was named a semifinalist.
December 14, 2026: Three finalists for the award will be named.
Spring 2027: The award winner will be announced at a ceremony.
Season Trajectory
This nomination follows the precedent set by J.J. Weaver, who won the award in 2024. It highlights the continued emphasis on character and leadership development within the University of Kentucky football program.
The nomination places Rodriguez among the top candidates for a $10,000 contribution to the school's athletic scholarship fund. His performance metrics of 33 receptions and three touchdowns in 2026 serve as a key statistical driver for this recognition.
The takeaway
The recognition emphasizes the importance of balancing collegiate academic success with consistent athletic performance. Student-athletes who maintain high standards in both areas remain the primary focus for major national awards.
What happens next
The committee will narrow the field of semifinalists to three finalists on December 14, 2026.
Further reading
Find more updates on the team at the Lexington Football section.
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