In college football, countless awards recognize the best athletes each season. While the Heisman Trophy is undoubtedly the most prestigious, that doesn’t mean other awards lack value. Each award holds significant importance and has its own unique essence, but among them, the Maxwell Award stands out.
It has a rich history, but what makes it truly special is the way it honors the most complete and outstanding player on the field. While fans usually talk about the Heisman most, the Maxwell Award quietly highlights true game-changers. Many of its past winners have gone on to shine in the NFL and leave an indelible mark on the sport.
History of the Maxwell Award
The Maxwell Award is one of the most respected honors in college football. Every year, the nation’s top all-around player receives it. The award was created in 1937 by the Maxwell Football Club and is named after Robert “Tiny” Maxwell. He was a football player, coach, and sportswriter who made a big impact on the sport.
The winner of the Maxwell Award is @BroncoSportsFB’s @AshtonJeanty2 👏#MaxwellFootball pic.twitter.com/tIlFAVvr92
— Maxwell Football (@MaxwellFootball) December 13, 2024
In its early days, the award was often given to players from top programs like Notre Dame and Penn State, which added to its prestige. Over time, the selection process grew to include votes from sportscasters, sportswriters, NCAA coaches, and club members to offer a fair selection.
Today, it remains a key indicator of future NFL success, with past winners like Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Bryce Young making an impact at the professional level.
How Is the Maxwell Award Winner Selected?
Each year, the Maxwell Football Club selects the winner based on performance, leadership, and sportsmanship. Though the results are normally announced in December, the real preparation starts long before. The selection process is given below:
Preseason Watch List: The Maxwell Football Club released its 2024 watch list featuring 80 standout players from across the FBS. This list includes returning semifinalists like Jalen Milroe (Alabama), Carson Beck (Georgia), and Cade Klubnik (Clemson). The ACC leads with 20 players on the list, followed by the SEC and Big 12 with 15 each, and the Big Ten with 12. Almost the same process is followed every year.
Semifinalists: Based on in-season performance, the list is narrowed down to semifinalists. Voting for semifinalists typically begins in mid-November.
Finalists: Usually, three finalists are selected from the semifinalists. A final round of voting takes place after the announcement.
Winner Announcement – Declared in December, following voting by sportswriters, coaches, and Maxwell Club members.
Which Program Has the Most Maxwell Awards?
Penn State and Notre Dame share the top spot when it comes to Maxwell Award wins. Both schools have brought home the award seven times each.
Right behind them is the Atlanta Braves program, with five Maxwell Awards to their name. The USC Trojans, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Texas Longhorns follow closely, each earning the honor four times.
Meanwhile, the Florida Gators, Miami Hurricanes, and Oklahoma Sooners have each won the award three times, showing their long-standing impact on college football.
Who Is the Most Recent Maxwell Award Winner?
The 2025 Maxwell Award winner has yet to be officially announced. But last year, Boise State RB Ashton Jeanty won this prestigious award. He had an amazing season, rushing for 2,497 yards, which ranks fourth in FBS single-season history.
KEEP READING: List of Maxwell Award Winners
His incredible performance made him the first non-Power Five player to win the Maxwell Award since Ty Detmer in 1990. In addition to the Maxwell Award, Jeanty also won the Doak Walker Award for the nation’s top running back, becoming the first Boise State player to earn both honors.
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