Klubnik, Williams Named to Maxwell Watch List

The Maxwell Football Club announced the 80-player watch list for the 2025 Maxwell Award, presented annually to college football's most outstanding player. Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik and Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia are highlighted as returning semifinalists.

The watch list features players from across the FBS, led by Penn State with three candidates. Sixteen other schools have two players represented. Conference representation shows the SEC and ACC each have 17 candidates, followed by the Big 12 (15) and Big Ten (14). Candidates are listed alphabetically by school, including position and class year.

The selection process involves partners Pro Football Focus (PFF), which provides detailed metrics and performance analysis, and Phil Steele Publications. Semifinalists will be announced on November 11, 2025, followed by three finalists on November 25, 2025. The winner will be revealed during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 11, 2025, with the formal presentation scheduled for March 13, 2026, in Atlanta.

Background information notes that the Maxwell Award, named after Robert "Tiny" Maxwell and first presented in 1937, is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). The Maxwell Football Club, founded in 1935, recognizes football excellence at various levels.