THE HILL | Alabama A&M University linebacker Wyatt Wright was selected to the 2026 Deacon Jones Player of the Year Watch List on Tuesday by the Black College Football Hall of Fame.
 
Wright, an All-SWAC Preseason First Team and Phil Steele All-SWAC Preseason First Team selection, registered 72 total tackles, including 34 solo stops. He posted 6.0 tackles for a loss of 28 yards, along with three sacks, one forced fumble, one quarterback hurry and one interception.
 
A total of 52 players representing 24 programs were selected for the initial watch list, which recognizes candidates for one of the top individual honors in HBCU football.

The award is presented annually to the most outstanding football player from a Historically Black College or University. Four finalists will be selected following the season, with the winner scheduled to be announced during halftime of the 2027 Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl on Feb. 27 in Atlanta.

The winner will receive the Deacon Jones Trophy.

"The Black College Football Player of the Year Award represents the excellence, dedication, and competitive spirit of HBCU football," Black College Football Hall of Fame co-founder Doug Williams said. "These young men are building their own legacies, as they set the standard for themselves and others who will follow. In order to keep this tradition alive, we have to continue to exemplify the impact of HBCU football."
 
Fall Schedule
The Bulldogs open the 2026 season on the national stage with the 2026 Cricket Wireless MEAC/SWAC Challenge against Howard at Center Parc Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Saturday, Aug. 29. The first home game is a week later (Sept. 5) as Alabama A&M plays host to Miles College in the 16^th Annual Louis Crews Classic. 
 
Classic Games
Alabama A&M will play in five signature games this season, starting with the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Aug. 29 against Howard. A week later, the Maroon & White will play host to Miles College in the 16^th Annual Louis Crews Classic. The Bulldogs will look to make it two straight in The Legacy Series when AAMU host Tennessee State on Sept. 12. Alabama A&M faces Jackson State in the Gulf Coast Challenge on Oct. 3 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. and conclude the classic games with the 84th Annual Magic City Classic on Oct. 31 at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala.
 
Ticket Information
Season tickets and single-game tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now. Purchase your tickets today to guarantee your seat for the upcoming season. To purchase tickets, visit aamusports.com or call the ticket office at: 256.372.7255 or 256.372.7254.  
 
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