The annual accolade recognizing the finest offensive talent in FCS football, the Walter Payton Award, was bestowed upon Montana State's Tommy Mellott in 2024. This prestigious honor celebrates not just athletic prowess but also the legacy of an NFL icon. Discover everything you need to know about this remarkable award and its rich history.

Embrace the Legacy of Excellence and Leadership

A Tradition Rooted in Football Greatness

The tradition began in 1987, celebrating the most outstanding player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). In 1995, it shifted focus exclusively to offensive players, coinciding with the introduction of the Buck Buchanan Award for top defensive performers. A distinguished panel of over 150 sports professionals votes on the winner, based on regular-season performances. Voting concludes before the FCS playoffs commence.The Payton Award is one of five national honors presented by STATS FCS, each highlighting different aspects of excellence in FCS football. These awards include:- Outstanding Offensive Player- Top Defensive Player- Freshman of the Year- Coach of the Year- Scholar-Athlete of the Year

Honoring a Legend: Walter Payton's Journey

Walter Payton, the award's namesake, etched his name into football lore through his stellar career with the Chicago Bears. Known as "Sweetness," he earned nine Pro Bowl selections, MVP honors in 1977, and a Super Bowl championship in 1986. His journey began at Jackson State University from 1971 to 1974, where he rushed for 3,600 yards and scored 63 touchdowns. Payton's legacy extends beyond the gridiron; he is enshrined in both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Grand Revelation: Announcing the Winner

Each year, the Walter Payton Award winner is unveiled during the STATS FCS Awards Banquet and Presentation, held the night before the FCS championship game in Frisco, Texas. The 2024 recipient, announced on January 4, 2024, was Montana State quarterback Tommy Mellott. While other award winners are revealed earlier, the Payton and Buchanan awards are disclosed live during the ceremony, adding suspense and excitement.The initial watch list, comprising 35 candidates, is released in the preseason and updated throughout the season. Finalists are invited to attend the banquet, creating a celebratory atmosphere for these elite athletes.

Montana State's Triumph: Tommy Mellott's Remarkable Season

Tommy Mellott's 2024 victory marks a historic moment for Montana State, becoming the first player from the university to win the award in its 38-year existence. Mellott's performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He completed 68.5% of his passes for 1,956 yards, 22 touchdowns, and just one interception. Additionally, he ran for 640 yards and 11 touchdowns, leading Montana State to an undefeated record. Mellott outshone fellow finalists Cam Miller from North Dakota State and Targhee Lambson from Southern Utah.Quarterbacks have dominated the award since its inception, with 27 winners, including the last eight consecutive seasons. Running backs and wide receivers have also been recognized, with Eastern Washington leading all schools with four recipients. Noteworthy past honorees include NFL stars like Cooper Kupp, Jimmy Garoppolo, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, and Steve McNair.

A Legacy of Consistency: Back-to-Back Winners

Two players have achieved the rare feat of winning the award in consecutive years. Armanti Edwards from Appalachian State claimed the title in 2008 and 2009, while Jeremiah Briscoe from Sam Houston State repeated the feat in 2016 and 2017. Their consistency and dominance underscore the high standards set by this prestigious award.

The Complete History: Past Recipients and Their Impact

The Walter Payton Award has honored numerous standout players over the years. From Kenny Gamble in 1987 to Tommy Mellott in 2024, each recipient has left an indelible mark on FCS football. Players like Mark Gronowski, Lindsey Scott Jr., Eric Barriere, Cole Kelley, Trey Lance, Devlin Hodges, John Robertson, Taylor Heinicke, Bo Levi Mitchell, Jeremy Moses, Jayson Foster, Ricky Santos, Erik Meyer, Lang Campbell, Jamaal Branch, Louis Ivory, Adrian Peterson, Jerry Azumah, Brian Finneran, Archie Amerson, Dave Dickenson, Doug Nussmeier, Michael Payton, Jamie Martin, Walter Dean, John Friesz, and Dave Meggett have all contributed to the award's illustrious history.Their achievements highlight the depth and quality of talent within FCS football, inspiring future generations to strive for excellence on and off the field.