College Football Stars Earn AFCA Good Works Team Nominations for 2026

A Legacy of Service Beyond the Gridiron

As the 2026 college football season approaches, attention is shifting from on-field performance to off-field impact. The American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) has officially released its list of nominees for the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, highlighting players who demonstrate a profound commitment to community service and volunteerism. This annual recognition serves as a testament to the role of student-athletes as pillars of their local communities, proving that their influence extends well past the sidelines.

National Recognition for Community Leaders

The nomination process for the 2026 class has brought forward a diverse group of athletes from various programs, each noted for their dedication to social causes. Among the notable nominees are:

• Alabama: A star safety from the Crimson Tide has been recognized for his efforts, marking another instance of Alabama’s continued presence in prestigious service-based awards.
• UC Davis: Zaire Collier has earned a nomination for his contributions, representing the Aggies on a national stage.
• Illinois State: Kaplan has been named as a nominee, reflecting the university’s commitment to fostering well-rounded student-athletes.
• New Mexico: Jaxton Eck has received a nomination, highlighting the efforts of the Lobos’ program in community engagement.
• Clemson: A standout running back from the Tigers has been selected, further showcasing the program's focus on character development.

These nominations are not merely honorary; they represent hundreds of hours spent in mentorship, charity work, and civic outreach. According to reports from the respective athletic departments, these student-athletes have balanced the rigorous demands of Division I football with significant commitments to improving the lives of those in their surrounding cities and towns.

Why This Recognition Matters

In an era where the financial and professional aspects of college football often dominate the headlines, the AFCA Good Works Team serves as a necessary reminder of the amateur spirit. The award, which has become one of the most prestigious honors in the sport, elevates the profile of community service. For many of these athletes, the work is done without the expectation of media coverage. By spotlighting these individuals, the AFCA and Allstate encourage a culture of philanthropy that resonates with younger fans and fellow students.

Furthermore, the selection process is rigorous. Nominees are evaluated on their ability to lead by example, their impact on the community, and their academic standing. This holistic approach ensures that the recipients are not just talented players but citizens who contribute positively to society. The inclusion of players from both perennial powerhouses and smaller programs underscores the universality of the commitment to service across the collegiate landscape.

Differing Perspectives on Athlete Advocacy

While the AFCA Good Works Team is universally lauded as a positive initiative, there is ongoing discussion within the sports community regarding how such accolades are perceived. Some analysts argue that these awards provide a vital counter-narrative to the negative stereotypes sometimes associated with high-profile athletes. Others, however, suggest that the emphasis on service can sometimes be overshadowed by the intense focus on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and transfer portal activity.

Despite these differing viewpoints, the consensus remains that recognizing altruism is essential. According to statements from participating athletic departments, the players themselves often view their community work as the most rewarding part of their collegiate experience, providing them with a sense of perspective that carries over into their academic and athletic performances.

The Road to the Final Team

The current list of nominees will be whittled down by a panel of experts, including former players, coaches, and members of the media. The final 22-man roster—comprised of 11 players from the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and 11 from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Divisions II, III, and the NAIA—will be announced later this year. Following the final selection, one player and one head coach will be named as the honorary captain of the team.

As the season progresses, the nominees will continue their service projects, with many programs planning special events to coincide with the selection process. For fans, these players represent more than just statistics on a depth chart; they represent the heart of their respective universities. The anticipation now builds for the official selection of the final team, which will continue to set the standard for what it means to be a modern-day student-athlete.