11/11/2026 11:00:00 AM | Football
Tight end continues to post numbers at the top of the nation
BALTIMORE, Md. – Signifying his standing as one of the best tight ends in the country, Kari Ashley has been tabbed as a 2026 John Mackey Award Semifinalist, the organization announced on Wednesday.
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Inaugurated in 2000 by the Nassau County Sports Commission, the John Mackey Award distinguishes the nation's most outstanding collegiate tight end who exemplifies gridiron mastery and character. This honor recognizes athletic giants who redefine leadership on the field and within their communities.
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In his first season as a Horned Frog, Ashley has proven to be one of the best tight ends in the country and in program history. He has 655 receiving yards, which is the highest among the finalists and ranks third in program history.
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Along with this, he also ranks first among the finalists in reception volume (25.6), yards after the catch (369), yards per route run (3.0), completion percentage when targeted (81.3%), first downs generated (30), PFF overall grade (86.1) and PFF receiving grade (91.1).
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He has had three games with over 100 yards, posting 119 against Grambling State, 108 against BYU and 118 versus West Virginia. He also added two scores against Grambling.
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The Selection Committee will next narrow the field to three finalists, who will be announced on November 24. The 2026 John Mackey Award winner will be revealed during ESPN's Home Depot College Football Awards, Dec 11th.
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Inaugurated in 2000 by the Nassau County Sports Commission, the John Mackey Award distinguishes the nation's most outstanding collegiate tight end who exemplifies gridiron mastery and character. This honor recognizes athletic giants who redefine leadership on the field and within their communities.
Â
In his first season as a Horned Frog, Ashley has proven to be one of the best tight ends in the country and in program history. He has 655 receiving yards, which is the highest among the finalists and ranks third in program history.
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Along with this, he also ranks first among the finalists in reception volume (25.6), yards after the catch (369), yards per route run (3.0), completion percentage when targeted (81.3%), first downs generated (30), PFF overall grade (86.1) and PFF receiving grade (91.1).
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He has had three games with over 100 yards, posting 119 against Grambling State, 108 against BYU and 118 versus West Virginia. He also added two scores against Grambling.
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The Selection Committee will next narrow the field to three finalists, who will be announced on November 24. The 2026 John Mackey Award winner will be revealed during ESPN's Home Depot College Football Awards, Dec 11th.
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Players Mentioned
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