Rodrigo Blankenship, the beloved senior kicker for the Georgia Bulldogs, has been named a finalist for the Burlsworth Trophy, along with two other collegiate players.
Per a press release from Mitchell Communications Group:
“The Burlsworth Trophy is awarded to the most outstanding college football player in America who began his career as a walk on.”
In addition to Blankenship, University of California Running Safety/Kick Returner Ashtyn Davis, and Michigan State Defensive End Kenny Willekes were also named finalists for the award.
The 3 finalists will be honored and the winner of the 2019 Burlsworth Trophy will be announced on December 9th, at 12:45 p.m. at a luncheon in Springdale, Ark. hosted by the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation in conjunction with the Springdale Rotary Club, per the release.
Past winers of this prestigious award include:
- 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 Mississippi
- 2010- Sean Bedford, Center- Georgia Tech
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.
(All information courtesy of Mitchell Communications Group and the Burlsworth Trophy Foundation)
