ATLANTA, Ga.– The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy named junior Safety Jaylen McClain to the 2026 trophy watch list on Tuesday afternoon.

The Wuerffel Trophy was established in 2005, and honors the college football players who serve others, celebrates their impact and inspires greater service across the nation. The trophy is presented each year to an FBS player who combines exemplary community service with leadership achievements both on and off the field. This trophy is the first major award to recognize the character of service to others.  

Off the field, McClain started Everyday Legends Foundation, a foundation started and operated by Jaylen McClain. This nonprofit is dedicated to empowering youth and strengthening underserved communities. Additionally, this summer, he put on the inaugural  Jaylen McClain Youth Football Camp which focused on leadership, skill-building, and confidence for young athletes. He also has been an active volunteer in seasonal outreach efforts, including holiday toy drives and Thanksgiving turkey donation initiatives.  

On the field, McClain is considered one of the best defenders in the country entering the season as he was placed on the Nagurski Watch List, a member of the East-West Bowl 1000 and on numerous preseason All-Big Ten teams. Last season, McClain was an All-Big Ten selection as he finished the season with 53 total tackles which ranked sixth on the team while also having three pass breakups. Additionally, he posted multiple tackles in 13 of 14 games. 

The Wuerffel Trophy Process 

The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team is comprised of 22 student athletes and one honorary head coach who work to make outstanding contributions through volunteering and civic involvement. There are 11 players on the team from the FBS, who are named as semifinalists for the trophy. From that group, three finalists are selected by the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy National Selection Committee, with the winner of the trophy serving as the captain of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.