Altmyer named to Walter Camp Player of the Year watch list

Altmyer is one of 46 players and 22 quarterbacks selected to the watch list and one of 10 Big Ten players represented.

By Elizabeth Hess August 4, 2025 3:06 pm

ContributedElizabeth HessAltmyer is also a nominee for the Wooden Citizen Cup for community service and leadership.

CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer continues to rack up national recognition ahead of the 2025 season. On Monday, the Walter Camp Football Foundation announced that Altmyer has been named to the Walter Camp Player of the Year preseason watch list — an honor reserved for the top talent in college football.

Altmyer is one of 46 players and 22 quarterbacks selected to the watch list and one of 10 Big Ten players represented. He becomes just the second Illini in program history to appear on the preseason list, joining 2023 consensus All-American Johnny Newton. Running back Chase Brown was a semifinalist for the award in 2022.

The Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, established in 1967, is one of college football’s most prestigious honors, presented annually to the most outstanding player in the country. Named after Walter Camp — known as the “father of American football” — the award is voted on by FBS head coaches and sports information directors nationwide.

Altmyer enters the 2025 season following a standout 2024 campaign in which he led the Illini to a 10-3 record, tying the program’s single-season wins record. He threw for 2,717 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just six interceptions, earning All-Big Ten Honorable Mention and national recognition as one of the country’s most efficient and clutch performers. He leads all active players with five career game-winning drives in the final minute or overtime.

Already named to the Maxwell Award Watch List and recognized by Phil Steele and Athlon with preseason All-Big Ten honors, Altmyer is also a nominee for the Wooden Citizen Cup for community service and leadership.