CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Illinois senior linebacker Kenenna Odeluga has been named to the watch list for the 2025 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award, recognizing his exceptional leadership, community service, and on-field performance.
Odeluga is one of 67 college football players nationwide named to the list for the award, which honors student-athletes who demonstrate integrity, courage, and a commitment to serving others. The honor is considered one of the sport’s most prestigious for character and leadership.
A three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree, Odeluga has made a wide impact both locally and globally. He founded Illinois’ “Afro-Tailgate,” creating an inclusive cultural experience for African students at football games, and helped establish the African Heritage Scholarship at his alma mater, Mount Carmel High School.
His service extends internationally—he took part in a mission trip to Africa in 2023—and locally, where he’s volunteered with DREAAM, Carle Foundation Hospital, and the Salvation Army. Odeluga is also a co-leader for EMPOWER, a student-athlete group that provides support for athletes of color at Illinois.
The linebacker is also on the watch list for the 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy and recently received Illinois’ Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award.
The Jason Witten Award, now in its ninth year, is named for former NFL star and community advocate Jason Witten and spotlights players whose impact goes far beyond football. The winner will be announced in early 2026.
