Andrew Body, Chance Peterson featured on Walter Payton award watch list
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Two HBCU football stars have been featured on the preseason watch list for the Walter Payton Award. Alabama State quarterback Andrew Body and North Carolina Central wide receiver Chance Peterson are on the preseason watch list, which features some of the best offensive players in FCS football. Opta Analyst and Stats Perform released the list, which features multiple standout players across the FCS. The award is named after former Jackson State standout Walter Payton and was first awarded in 1987.
Body emerged as one of the best players in HBCU football during the 2025 season for Alabama State before going down with an injury. Before his injury, he threw for 1,770 yards and 20 touchdowns with only one interception. He also rushed for 518 yards and four touchdowns, leading the Hornets to second place in the SWAC East, just a game away from advancing to the SWAC Championship. Jackson State ultimately won the SWAC East division and secured it after beating Alabama State in their early October matchup.
Chance Peterson is entering his third season with North Carolina Central and had a breakout year as a big-play receiver for the Eagles. In 12 games, he finished the season with 720 yards on 48 catches and one touchdown. He also had three attempts as a kickoff returner, accumulating 64 yards, and three attempts as a punt returner, accumulating 10 yards.
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The full list of FCS players on the Walter Payton Award preseason watch list is below.
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