Gators EDGE named to Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Preseason Watch List

The Maxwell Football Club announced its Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Preseason Watch List on Wednesday and included Florida Gators five-star edge defender LJ McCray among the many notable names.

The blue-chipper led Mainland High School to its first state title in 20 years last fall and in 35 career games at the prep level, he amassed 133 tackles, 18 sacks and 62 tackles for a loss. As a result, On3 ranked him as the top player in the 2024 cycle at his position.

“McCray signed with the Gators as one of the most physically impressive high school prospects in the 2024 cycle,” ESPN’s Eli Lederman and Adam Rittenberg noted in their assessment of the talented true freshman.

“In his seven-plus months at Florida, McCray’s physical development has only bolstered confidence within the program that the five-star freshman can contribute this fall.”

About the award

The Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award is an honor given each year to the most outstanding freshman player in college football. Named after Shaun Alexander since 2018, this award recognizes the exceptional performance and impact made by these players on their respective teams throughout the season.

The Alexander Award is dedicated to championing future legends and evaluates players based on talent, character, ambassador and legend.

The 37 players on the watch list will be narrowed down to 14 semifinalists on Nov. 6 and reduced to five finalists on Dec. 4. The winner will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 26, and the award will be presented on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the Maxwell Football Club Awards ceremony.

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