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The WireBreaking coverage · FBS IndependentsUPDATED AUG 26, 2026
The Pate State / The Wire
The WireStatus · ConfirmedImpact · lowNotre Dame · FBS Independents

Notre Dame OL Will Black Named to Shaun Alexander Freshman Award Watchlist

The sophomore offensive lineman is eligible under the award’s guidelines and enters the season competing for a starting role on Notre Dame’s line.

WD
The Pate State Wire DeskVerified reporting · full source list below · monitored by an editor
● Confirmed
AUG 26, 2026
The Pate State · Wire Graphic

01 · The NewsWhat Happened

Notre Dame athletics announced Wednesday that offensive lineman Will Black was named to the 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award watchlist. The award honors the top freshman in college football, and Maxwell Football Club guidelines allow Black to qualify despite being a sophomore. A 2025 Navy All-American from Choate Rosemary Hall in Connecticut, Black appeared in three games for Notre Dame last season. He made his collegiate debut in the Irish’s 49-10 win over Navy on Nov. 8. Notre Dame has not named Black a starter, but he is competing for a starting role on the offensive line this season. The watchlist does not determine the award’s finalists or winner.

Sourcing & standards: Reporting via Yahoo Sports. Produced by the Pate State Wire Desk under the site's verification rules, monitored by an editor. Corrections are timestamped, never silent.

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