Burlsworth Trophy Announces Four New Members to National Selection Committee

Burlsworth Trophy Announces Four New Members to National Selection Committee

Houston Nutt, Taylor McGregor, Matt McGloin and Luke Falk Join Prestigious Group Responsible for Selecting College Football’s Most Outstanding Former Walk-On

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark., November 12, 2026 — The Burlsworth Trophy, presented annually to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on, is proud to announce the addition of four distinguished members to its national selection committee: Former University of Arkansas and Ole Miss head football coach Houston Nutt, ESPN broadcaster Taylor McGregor, 2012 Burlsworth Trophy winner Matt McGloin and 2017 Burlsworth Trophy winner Luke Falk.

The four new members bring a wealth of college football knowledge, experience, and perspective to the committee, further strengthening the award’s commitment to recognizing extraordinary achievement, perseverance, and character in college football.

“We are extremely excited to welcome these four outstanding individuals to our selection committee,” said Marty Burlsworth, CEO of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation. “Each brings a unique perspective and a tremendous appreciation for the dedication, sacrifice, and determination it takes to succeed at the highest level of college football.

Houston Nutt brings a unique and personal connection to the Burlsworth Trophy, having served as Brandon Burlsworth’s head coach at the University of Arkansas during his final collegiate season in 1998. Nutt witnessed firsthand the exceptional work ethic, determination, and character that propelled Burlsworth from walk-on to All-American. A three-time SEC Coach of the Year, Nutt is one of only four coaches to earn the honor at multiple SEC schools, joining Bear Bryant, Steve Spurrier, and Nick Saban. He also ranks second in career victories among Arkansas head coaches, behind only legendary coach Frank Broyles. Nutt’s addition to the selection committee brings a special connection to Brandon’s remarkable story and the values the Burlsworth Trophy continues to honor.

Taylor McGregor is an accomplished ESPN reporter and host who has covered college football, the NBA, the UFL, and numerous major sporting events. Since joining ESPN in 2019, she has become a familiar face on college football sidelines for ESPN and ABC, while also contributing to SportsCenter and NCAA Championship coverage. A 2015 graduate of the University of Arkansas, McGregor began her broadcasting career with stops in Little Rock, Denver, and Wyoming before expanding her national presence. She also served as the lead field reporter for Chicago Cubs broadcasts from 2020 to 2026. Her extensive experience in sports broadcasting and appreciation for the dedication of student-athletes bring a valuable perspective to the Burlsworth Trophy selection committee.

Matt McGloin, the 2012 Burlsworth Trophy recipient, made history as Penn State’s first walk-on quarterback to start a game since 1949, ultimately setting multiple school passing records. He went on to play professionally in the NFL with the Oakland Raiders. Today, McGloin serves as a wealth counselor, a member of the Penn State University Board of Trustees, and is actively involved in leading the Matt McGloin Fund, which focuses on giving back to the community and supporting those in need. His journey from walk-on quarterback to the NFL, along with his continued commitment to leadership and community service, reflects the determination, perseverance, and character that the Burlsworth Trophy represents.

Luke Falk, the 2017 Burlsworth Trophy recipient, rose from walk-on quarterback at Washington State University to become one of the most accomplished passers in Pac-12 history, setting numerous school and conference records before being selected in the 2018 NFL Draft. Falk is also the author of The Mind Strength Playbook, which emphasizes the importance of developing mental toughness and discipline to achieve success both on and off the field. His personal journey and commitment to helping others reach their full potential reflect the values at the heart of the Burlsworth Trophy.

About the Burlsworth Trophy
The trophy is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth. Without one D1 scholarship offer, Brandon walked on to the Razorback team in 1994, worked his way to being a three-year starter and was eventually named an All- American in 1998. Burlsworth was selected as the 63rd overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL draft but was tragically killed in a car accident 11 days later. The Burlsworth Foundation was created in his memory and supports the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those children who have limited opportunities. For a full narrative of the Foundation’s work, visit brandonburlsworth.org.

About the National College Football Awards Association
The Burlsworth Trophy is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA), which encompasses the most prestigious awards in college football. Founded in 1997, the NCFAA and its 24 awards now boast over 900 recipients, dating to 1935. This season, 13 NCFAA awards will honor national players of the week each Tuesday. Visit ncfaa.org and @NCFAA on Twitter to learn more about the association.

Past Burlsworth Trophy winners include:

2025 – Drew Mestemaker, Quarterback – North Texas
2024 – Bryce Boettcher, Linebacker – Oregon
2023 – Cody Schrader, Running Back – Missouri
2022 – Stetson Bennett, Quarterback – Georgia
2021 – Grant Morgan, Linebacker – Arkansas
2020 – Jimmy Morrissey, Center – Pittsburgh
2019 – Kenny Willekes, Defensive End – Michigan State
2018 – Hunter Renfrow, Receiver – Clemson
2017 – Luke Falk, Quarterback – Washington State
2016 – Baker Mayfield, Quarterback – Oklahoma
2015 – Baker Mayfield, Quarterback – Oklahoma
2014 – Justin Hardy, Receiver – East Carolina
2013 – Jared Abbrederis, Receiver – Wisconsin
2012 – Matt McGloin, Quarterback – Penn State
2011 – Austin Davis, Quarterback – Southern Miss
2010 – Sean Bedford, Center – Georgia Tech

*For all Burlsworth Trophy logos and photos, please download HERE.
For more information about the Burlsworth Trophy, visit burlsworthtrophy.com.