LOUISVILLE, Ky. - First year Bulldog Jaelen Gill, who transferred into the program from Boston College, has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2023 Paul Hornung Award presented by Texas Roadhouse. The award, in its 14th season, is presented to the most versatile player in college football.
With one year left of eligibility, Gill has had experience at Ohio State (2018-19) and Boston College (2020-22) as both a receiver and a returner. The 2022 season was a big one for Gill as he stepped up as a starting receiver, while totaling 27 receptions for 388 yards. As a kick returner that year, he had 24 returns for 509 yards.
Out of high school (Westerville South), Gill was considered one of the best all-around athletes in his 2018 recruiting cycle.
Gill joins a Fresno State offense and kick return unit that graduated a majority of its production from 2022, and looks to be an impact for the Bulldogs as fall camp begins this week.
Flashback
While not preseason additions to the watch list, Nikko Remigio (2022), Jordan Mims (2021), and Jalen Moreno-Cropper (2019) were recognized during their respective seasons as versatile players. Former Bulldog running back Ronnie Rivers was a three-time preseason addition to the Paul Hornung Award watch list (2019, 2020, 2021).
About the Paul Hornung Award
The Paul Hornung Award is given annually by the Louisville Sports Commission (LSC) to the most versatile player in major college football. The Award was created by the LSC in January 2010 with the support of the Golden Boy himself, Paul Hornung, a native and lifelong resident of Louisville and member of the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame.
Hornung is considered by many the most versatile player in the history of college and pro football. He won the 1956 Heisman Trophy at quarterback for Notre Dame and was the number one pick in the 1957 NFL draft. He played every position in the backfield during his career with the Irish, where he also punted, kicked, returned kicks, and played defensive back. While in the NFL, Hornung was a multi-threat offensive back and prolific kicker. He was a member of four NFL championship teams as an all-pro halfback for the Green Bay Packers and led the NFL in scoring 1959-60-61, set the single season scoring record in 1960 with 176 points, and was named League MVP following the 1961 season.
In the spirit of partnership with Paul Hornung, the LSC oversees and administers all aspects of the Award including budget, selection process, marketing and PR, banquet, trophy, sponsorships, and hospitality. An Advisory Committee comprised of the LSC President and CEO, board leadership, and local business leaders provides guidance to insure the integrity of the Award.