Jeff Caldwell of the Lindenwood football team has been named a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, which is given to the top offensive player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)
Caldwell had an outstanding junior campaign, hauling in 53 receptions for 1032 yards and 11 touchdowns, The 11 touchdowns ranked eighth-most in the country. The Louisville, Ky. native compiled seven games with 99 receiving yards or more during the 2024 season.
The junior wideout was tabbed Big South-OVC Offensive Player of the Week one time this season after totaling four catches, all for touchdowns, and 115 yards in a win against Eastern Illinois on September 28.
Caldwell made some big plays during the year and averaged 19.5 yards per catch, ranking second in the Big South-OVC. He had three touchdown grabs of 70 or more yards, including a 93-yard touchdown catch in a win against St. Thomas. That grab set the program record for longest offensive play. For his career, Caldwell has found the end zone 23 times, ranking fourth in program history.
The award, in its 38th season and affectionately known as the Heisman of the FCS, is named for legendary running back Walter Payton, who starred at Jackson State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp and Trey Lance.
