HOUSTON - Fresno State senior offensive lineman Mose Vavao was named to the preseason watch list for the 2024 Lombardi Award, announced by the organization on Thursday. The award is presented to the college player who best embodies the values and spirit of legendary NFL coach Vince Lombardi. It is presented to outstanding linemen who best epitomize their values of leadership, courage, performance, and discipline on and off the field. Furthermore, the watch list includes players who consistently show the values of strength, agility, and football acumen in their respective positions.
Vavao is one of 90 of the nation's top linemen and linebackers on the watch list. He is one of six centers on the list. Based on previous performances and potential for the coming season, this list consists of a select group of talented athletes representing the very best from all FBS conferences and independents. Vavao is one of two selections from the Mountain West.
A Bulldog since 2020, Vavao returns in 2024 as one of the most experienced players on the roster, leading an experienced offensive line unit in a new role at center this season. The native of Newark, Calif. has played at both left guard and right guard in his Bulldog career. Vavao was a second team All-Mountain West selection in 2023, starting all 13 games at right guard.
He has been an anchor on the Bulldog offensive line throughout his career, having started in 42 consecutive games of 46 career games played dating back to 2020. Vavao returns in 2024 as Fresno State's team leader in career games started (42) and is second on the team in games played (46).
Vavao's preseason accolades have stacked up in 2024. He was a preseason All-Mountain West selection, voted on by the league's media. He was added to the watch lists for the Outland Trophy and the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year. He has also earned recognitions by Phil Steele, Athlon Sports, and College Football Network.