LEXINGTON, Ky. — Kentucky tight end Willie Rodriguez has been named to the 113-player watch list for the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, college football's premier award for community service.

Rodriguez, a junior management major from Taylor Mill, has played in 24 career games with 10 starts and totaled 28 receptions for 310 yards and one touchdown in his Wildcats tenure. The two-year letterwinner is one of 15 SEC nominees on the watch list announced by the Wuerffel Foundation.

Rodriguez's path to the honor reflects his deep commitment to service, rooted in caring for his younger sister, Gabby, who has Rett syndrome, a rare neurological disorder affecting childhood development. From an early age, he assisted with her daily needs while becoming one of her strongest advocates, a responsibility that cultivated his compassion and drive to help others.

His volunteer work extends throughout the Lexington community. Rodriguez has worked at Golisano Children's Hospital, volunteered with Easterseals of the Bluegrass, and assisted with a shoe drive benefiting Camp Horsin' Around, a nonprofit serving children with compromised health or special needs. He also volunteers at his sister's high school, Scott High School, where he spends time with her classmates.

The award, named after 1996 Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel, recognizes Football Bowl Subdivision players who excel in community service, academics and athletics. Eleven semifinalists will be selected in September, with the recipient announced Dec. 11 on The Home Depot College Football Awards show.

Kentucky won the trophy in 2017 through linebacker Courtney Love. Rodriguez joins a legacy of Wildcats recognized for their commitment to service alongside athletic excellence.