As a testament to his exceptional skills and character, SMU tight end RJ Maryland has been recognized as one of the best players in the country at his position and secured a spot on the 2024 Mackey Award Watch List ahead of the upcoming season.
This prestigious honor, announced Friday by the Friends of John Mackey, underscores Maryland’s potential to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Pro Football Hall of Famer.
The Mackey Award, given to the most outstanding tight end in college football, recognizes not only athletic achievement but also the embodiment of John Mackey’s values both on and off the field.
Maryland’s inclusion on this prestigious list underscores his remarkable performance during the 2023 season, where he emerged as a key offensive weapon for the Mustangs.
Maryland started every game and showed his versatility and reliability, ranking second on the team in receptions (34), receiving yards (518) and receiving yards per game (37). His impressive 13 touchdowns already rank him second all-time among SMU tight ends, a testament to his ability to find the end zone.
One of the best tight ends in the country.@RJMaryland1 was named to the Mackey Award Watch List!#PonyUpDallas pic.twitter.com/0pHFZ2qtrs
— SMU Soccer (@SMUFB) 9 August 2024
This latest recognition marks Maryland’s sixth preseason honor ahead of the 2024 season, but it has special significance as it is the first time he has been on a preseason watch list.
He joins an exclusive group of SMU tight ends to receive the honor, becoming only the second Mustang at his position to be selected, following in the footsteps of Grant Calcaterra in 2021.
The final winner of the Mackey Award is determined by a distinguished committee comprised of past award winners and esteemed members of the national media.
As the season progresses, Maryland will no doubt look to continue building on its impressive resume and solidify its candidacy for this coveted recognition.
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