The premier award recognizing the top return specialist in college football is the Jet Award.
The Jet Award is a distinguished honor specifically designed to celebrate excellence in special teams, focusing on the dynamic and often game-changing role of returners. Instituted beginning with the 2011 season, it has quickly become the definitive accolade for athletes who excel in punt and kickoff returns across the NCAA's Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Honoring a Legend: Johnny "the Jet" Rodgers
The award is named in tribute to Johnny "the Jet" Rodgers, a legendary figure in college football history. Rodgers, who played for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, was a remarkable multi-talented player known for his electrifying returns, receiving, and rushing abilities. His exceptional athleticism and impact on the game culminated in him winning the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 1972. The Jet Award carries on his legacy by recognizing current players who demonstrate similar skill, speed, and impact in the return game.
Criteria and Significance
The Jet Award is bestowed upon the player deemed the most outstanding return specialist across the NCAA's Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). This includes players who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance in:
- Kickoff Returns: Breaking tackles, finding lanes, and scoring touchdowns from deep in their own territory.
- Punt Returns: Showcasing agility, vision, and the ability to flip field position or score.
The significance of the award lies in its specific focus on a position that, while crucial, often receives less individual recognition compared to offensive or defensive skill positions. It highlights the specialized talents required to excel as a returner, including:
- Speed and Acceleration
- Elusiveness and Vision
- Ball Security
- Courage and Poise under pressure
Key Details of the Jet Award
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Name | The Jet Award |
| Honors | Top return specialist in college football |
| Named After | Johnny "the Jet" Rodgers (1972 Heisman Trophy Winner) |
| First Awarded | 2011 season |
| Category | College Football Special Teams Award |
For more information on the award and its history, you can visit the official Jet Award website.
