Florida’s starting QB named to Wuerffel Trophy preseason watch list

The 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy preseason watch list was announced on Thursday with redshirt senior and incumbent Florida football quarterback Graham Mertz included among the names.

The honor is awarded annually to the FBS player who best embodies the spirit of service and humanitarianism of former Gators quarterback Danny Wuerffel , who parlayed his success on the football field into a lifetime of service.

Mertz has participated in a handful of service events with local organizations and charities during his short time in Gainesville. He has donated his time to Habitat for Humanity, Bread of the Almighty, Ronald McDonald House, Food4Kids Backpack Program, and North Central Florida YMCA — as well as multiple elementary schools in Alachua County — in less than two years in town.

The only member of the Orange and Blue to have ever earned the honor is Gators legend Tim Tebow , who was awarded in 2008.

Danny Wurffel’s announcement

“I am deeply honored to see such outstanding individuals nominated for this year’s Allstate Wuerffel Trophy,” said Wuerffel.

“Their commitment to serving others and making a positive impact in their communities is truly inspiring. Throughout my life and career, I have always believed in the importance of putting others before yourself and striving to make a difference. These nominees exemplify those values, and I am proud to celebrate their dedication to humanitarian efforts and selfless service.”

More on the Wuerffel Trophy

The 2024 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists and recipients will be selected by an illustrious national voting committee, including a fan vote component, and announced on ESPN’s Home Depot College Football Awards Show on Dec.12.  The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will take place Feb. 1, 2025, at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.

The full list of watch list nominees can be found here .

Follow us @GatorsWire on X, formerly known as Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida Gators news, notes and opinions.