Ladd McConkey – Wuerffel Winner

Ladd McConkey has officially been named this year’s Wuerffel Trophy recipient. The 22-year-old was announced as the winner on Friday at the The Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN. 

McConkey, a wide receiver for the Georgia Bulldogs was among two other finalists. Michigan running back Blake Corum and Notre Dame linebacker JD Bertrand, two players who are highly respected among the college football community, were also nominated. 

What is the Wuerffel Trophy?

Originating in 1996, the Wuerffel trophy is named after none other than Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Danny Wuerffel. Wuerffel dedicated his life to “build[ing] relationships, creat[ing] opportunities and coach[ing] leaders who are taking the initiative to transform their communities.

The award is annually given to the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities both on the field and off. In general, this individual makes efforts to improve their community and is usually involved with various charitable organizations. 

“While Ladd is a two-time National Champion, and one the most accomplished wide receivers in the country, his selflessness and commitment to make a difference in the lives of others is truly remarkable,” Wuerffel stated.

“With most major awards based on athletic achievement and statistics, it’s a privilege to recognize him for his philanthropic efforts, as Ladd continues to make a meaningful impact in his surrounding communities,” he added.

McConkey’s accomplishments

McConkey undoubtedly lives up to this reputation. Over the years, he has proved to be an exemplary football player and human. The wide receiver has supported organizations such as the Georgia DFCS and Elks Aidmore Therapeutic Care. He also worked with kids being treated at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

In addition to this, he is a member of the UGA Leadership Education and Development (L.E.A.D.) program. There, he reads to children and helps them learn how they can enjoy it themselves. He also makes an effort to regularly assist organizations dedicated to food insecurity in underprivileged areas. 

“It’s a huge honor being able to do more than just football,” McConkey said at the beginning of this season. 

Georgia Football posted a montage of some of McConkey’s recent actions that prove why he is worthy of winning the Wuerffel.

“I mean anytime you can put a smile on someone’s face, it just puts one back on mine. It’s just good to see the smiles on these kids’ faces. To just take a little bit out of our day, and just be able to make their day. It’s awesome that we get to do that,” McConkey says in the video.

Aside from this, McConkey is an exemplary student. Not only is he part of the Gridiron Honor Society, but he also graduated Magna Cum Laude in 3 years, according to the official Wuerffel Organization.

The ideal individual for an NFL team

On the field, McConkey has won back-to-back National Championships. He has also served as a key piece to the team’s success. Specifically, the wide receiver contributed two touchdowns in the 2022 College Football Playoff title game.

Overall, McConkey is undoubtedly impressive and it seems that he is fully deserving of the Wuerffel.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.