CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – University of Illinois athletes Kaden Feagin and Josh McCray were recently added to Doak Walker Award watch list. The prestigious award is presented every year to the top college running back in the United States.
The award recognizes the talents of a player not only on the field, but off the field as well with their achievements in the local community and the classroom. It is hosted by the National College Football Awards Association and will be awarded this December. The award is in honor of legendary running back Doak Walker, who played for the Detroit Lions and was known for his leadership and sportsmanship.
Feagin was a standout player in high school, and finished 10th in rushing yards during the Big Ten conference games. He was named Big Ten freshman of the week twice during the 2023 season, posted 148 yards of total offense, and a career-long 54-yard touchdown reception. He also played nine games with four starts as a true freshman.
McCray, despite facing some injuries, has been considered because of his talents. He ranked ninth in the Big Ten and 14th nationally in rushing yards as a freshman. He was the Illinois team victory MVP against Nebraska and he rushed for over 142 yards against Penn State, which was the most rushing yards ever by an Illini true freshman against a ranked opponent.