Syracuse’s Perry joins 11 other players nominated for 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team

Senior defensive back Perry of Syracuse University has been named a nominee for the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, joining eleven other student‑athletes from schools ranging from the University of Colorado to James Madison University. The nomination highlights the growing emphasis on off‑field impact as a hallmark of collegiate football excellence.

Core developments across campuses

Syracuse University Athletics announced Perry’s nomination in a release that underscores his dedication to service alongside his on‑field contributions Source 1. At the same time, a cascade of similar announcements has emerged from other programs. UC Davis named defensive back Zaire Collier as a 2026 nominee, emphasizing his role as a campus leader and community volunteer Source 2. Illinois State University highlighted senior linebacker Kaplan as its representative, noting his academic achievements and outreach work Source 3. The University of South Carolina publicized Harbor’s nomination, pointing to his involvement in local mentorship initiatives Source 4.

Further nominations include Ratcliffe from the Texas A&M 12th Man network Source 5, Washington of the University of Maryland Source 6, and Mathena from the University of Memphis Source 7. The University of Colorado announced Finneseth as its nominee, citing his leadership in service projects on campus and in the surrounding community Source 8. Virginia Tech added Hawkins to the nominee list Source 9, while the University of Wyoming highlighted Hughes Source 10. Finally, James Madison University named KJ Flowe as its 2026 nominee Source 11.

All eleven programs framed their athletes’ nominations as a reflection of the broader values championed by the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) and Allstate. The Good Works Team recognizes student‑athletes who excel academically, lead on the field, and devote significant time to community service. Each school’s press release stressed that the nominees exemplify the “student‑athlete” ideal, balancing rigorous athletic schedules with meaningful civic engagement.

Why it matters

The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team has become a benchmark for programs seeking to demonstrate a holistic approach to player development. In recent years, the award has helped elevate the public profile of college football programs that invest in community outreach, often translating into stronger alumni support and enhanced recruiting narratives. For Syracuse, Perry’s nomination signals that the program’s culture extends beyond the gridiron, reinforcing the university’s commitment to service as a recruiting differentiator.

Beyond individual schools, the collective roster of nominees showcases a nationwide trend: football programs are increasingly spotlighting service as a core component of their brand. This shift aligns with broader societal expectations that student‑athletes act as role models, particularly in regions where college football holds cultural sway. Moreover, the partnership between the AFCA and Allstate underscores corporate interest in aligning with socially responsible initiatives, offering financial support for community projects that involve student‑athletes.

Differing viewpoints and reactions

While each institution celebrated its nominee, the tone of the announcements varied. Syracuse’s release highlighted Perry’s personal journey and the impact of his specific service projects, framing the nomination as a culmination of years of grassroots work. In contrast, UC Davis’s statement placed greater emphasis on Collier’s leadership within the team, suggesting that his influence extends to shaping a culture of service among teammates. The University of South Carolina’s communication focused on Harbor’s mentorship of at‑risk youth, positioning the nomination as part of a larger university‑wide outreach strategy.

Some schools, such as the University of Maryland, opted for a concise announcement that simply listed Washington’s achievements, allowing the athlete’s own social‑media platforms to provide the narrative depth. Meanwhile, the 12th Man outlet highlighted Ratcliffe’s nomination as a point of pride for the broader Texas A&M community, indicating that fan‑base engagement can amplify the visibility of such honors.

What’s next for the nominees

All nominees will be reviewed by a panel of AFCA coaches and Allstate representatives later this year. The selection process culminates in the announcement of a final Good Works Team, typically comprised of fifteen to twenty athletes, during the AFCA National Convention in early 2027. Those selected will receive a scholarship from Allstate and will be featured in a national media campaign that showcases their service stories.

For Perry and his peers, the nomination alone offers a platform to expand their community initiatives, attract media attention, and inspire teammates to follow suit. Universities are likely to leverage the nominees in upcoming recruiting cycles, highlighting the opportunity for prospective athletes to develop both on the field and in the community. As the award ceremony approaches, the spotlight on these student‑athletes will intensify, offering a glimpse into how collegiate football can intertwine athletic excellence with civic responsibility.