Nebraska DB named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

Another Husker earned a spot on an award watchlist on Tuesday, the team's fourth player. Defensive back Donovan Jones earned the honor, being named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List.

The award honors FBS players who lead through community service while excelling in the classroom and on the field. Jones enters his redshirt sophomore year after playing in all 13 games last season, starting in 11. He recorded six or more tackles in five games last season. The Omaha native totaled 59 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss, and tied for the team lead with five pass breakups.

Jones' 59 tackles made him the fifth Husker freshman to record at least 50 tackles since the NCAA restored freshman eligibility in 1972. He also helped Nebraska rank third nationally in pass defense in 2025.

Jones is also highly active in the Nebraska community, volunteering at food banks, kitchens, public schools and various centers. For his contributions to the community, he received the Sam Foltz 27 Hero Leadership Award earlier this year. Jones is the fourth Husker to be named to a watchlist, joining Jacory Barney (Paul Hornung Award), Justin Evans (Rimington Trophy) and Anthony Colandrea (Maxwell Award).

In September, 11 student-athletes from the Watch List will be named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and become semifinalists for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy. The winner will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show in December and also serve as captain of the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. 

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This article originally appeared on Cornhuskers Wire: Nebraska DB named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List