Texas star Colin Simmons is chasing more than quarterbacks in 2026, landing on the Wuerffel Trophy watch list for his impact on and off the field.
Colin Simmons has already built a reputation as one of the most disruptive defenders in college football. Now the Texas Longhorns edge rusher has a chance to join a much smaller club.
Simmons was named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list, putting the Dallas native in contention for an award that measures far more than sacks and tackles.
The Wuerffel Trophy honors college football players for community service, academic achievement and performance on the field.
For Simmons, the recognition adds another layer to what could be a massive third season at Texas.
The former Duncanville High School star has spent his first two years terrorizing quarterbacks. Through 29 career games, Simmons has recorded 91 tackles and 21 sacks, along with an interception and five pass breakups.
Those numbers alone make him one of the most dangerous defenders on Texas’ roster.
But his work away from Saturdays is what helped put him in position for this particular honor.
Simmons has supported Clay’s Color Crew, a nonprofit that assists families and individuals in the Autism Spectrum Disorder community.
The organization focuses on expanding access to autism resources in underserved and lower-income areas, including communities in South Dallas.
That combination of production and service gives Simmons a chance to become just the third Texas player to win the Wuerffel Trophy.
Former Longhorns Sam Acho and Michael Taaffe are the only Texas players to capture the award.
The next cut will come quickly. Eleven players from the watch list are expected to be selected for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and advance as Wuerffel Trophy semifinalists.
Finalists will later be chosen by the national selection committee with fan voting also factoring into the process.
The winner is scheduled to be announced Dec. 11 during the Home Depot College Football Awards Show.
Simmons, however, has a much bigger immediate mission.
Texas enters 2026 carrying national championship expectations, and Simmons is expected to be one of the defensive stars driving that pursuit.
With 21 career sacks already on his résumé, another dominant season could push him toward All-America recognition and strengthen his profile as one of college football’s premier pass rushers.
He’ll spend plenty of Saturdays trying to wreck offensive game plans. The Wuerffel Trophy nomination shows Simmons is also making an impact when the stadium lights are off.
