PITTSBURGH—Two Pitt Panthers are represented on the latest award watch lists, it was announced today.
Sophomore wide receiver Kenny Johnson has been named to the preseason watch list for the Paul Hornung Award, presented by Texas Roadhouse, given annually to the most versatile player in major college football.
A native of York, Pa., and graduate of Dallastown High School, Johnson earned Honorable Mention All-ACC as a return specialist last year in his true freshman season. He saw action in all 12 games (three starts) and posted 15 catches for 122 yards (8.1 avg.) and a touchdown, along 72 yards on 10 rushes (7.2 avg.).
Against North Carolina, Johnson returned a kickoff for a 100-yard touchdown, tied for the longest by an FBS player in 2023 and the first 100-yard kickoff return score by a Panther since Nov. 5, 2016 (Quadree Henderson vs. Miami). It was also Pitt’s first kickoff return touchdown since Nov. 20, 2021 (Israel Abanikanda, 98 yards vs. Virginia) and he became the first true freshman with a kick return score since Henderson in 2015.
Sixth-year linebacker Brandon George (Reading, Pa./Berks Catholic) is a nominee for the prestigious Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, presented to the college football player “who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement.”
George earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and is now enrolled in Pitt’s Katz Graduate School of Business. Working with UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, he recently launched a fundraising campaign to support patients who are fighting adolescent cancer.
George was inspired to take up this cause as a tribute to his friend and high school teammate, Anthony Myers, who succumbed to cancer in 2019. George wears Myers’ jersey number 17 on his wristband as a constant reminder and inspiration.
George’s additional community service includes time with Special Olympians, Pittsburgh’s Veterans community, Shadyside Boys & Girls Club, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Children’s Home of Pittsburgh.
On the field, George has played in 52 career games and compiled 117 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and two sacks.
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