THE HILL | Alabama A&M University quarterback Cornelious Brown IV was named to the 2026 Black College Football Player of the Year Watch List on Wednesday, adding another national honor to his season.
 
Presented by the Black College Football Hall of Fame, the award recognizes the most outstanding football player from a Historically Black College or University. The winner receives the Deacon Jones Trophy, named in honor of the legendary defensive end and Pro Football Hall of Famer.
 
Through eight games, Brown has completed 149 of 245 passes for 2,158 yards and 21 touchdowns against five interceptions. He is completing 60.8 percent of his attempts, averaging 269.8 passing yards per game and carrying a 159.01 passing efficiency rating.
 
Brown has also contributed 137 rushing yards and four touchdowns, bringing his season totals to 2,295 yards of offense and 25 touchdowns accounted for. His production has helped Alabama A&M post a 6-2 overall record and a 3-1 mark in Southwestern Athletic Conference play.
 
The recognition places Brown in contention for an award with a strong connection to Alabama A&M. Former Bulldogs quarterback Aqeel Glass earned the honor following both the spring and fall 2021 seasons.
 
Four finalists will be announced after the season, with a selection committee determining the finalists and winner. The recipient will be revealed during halftime of the 2027 Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl on Feb. 27 in Atlanta. The game will air live on NFL Network.
 
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