Julian Sayin, the quarterback from Ohio State, has been awarded the 2025 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award. This accolade is presented annually to the top freshman in college football. The Maxwell Football Club made the announcement regarding Sayin’s achievement.
Julian Sayin’s Historic Achievement
Sayin, hailing from Carlsbad, California, made history by becoming the first Ohio State player to win this prestigious award. He is also the second active player from the Big Ten to receive this honor, following teammate Caleb Downs, who earned it in 2023.
Outstanding Season Performance
During the 2025 football season, Julian Sayin excelled on the field. Key highlights of his performance include:
- Highest passer rating in the nation.
- Leading the country in completion percentage.
- Tied for second place nationally in passing touchdowns.
- Ranked second in the Big Ten for passing yards.
His exceptional play helped guide Ohio State back to the Big Ten Championship Game, marking their first appearance in five years. The Buckeyes also returned to the College Football Playoff, aiming to defend their national championship title.
Acknowledgments and Honors
In recognition of his impressive season, Sayin also received the Big Ten Freshman of the Year title. He was named to the Associated Press All-America Team and was a finalist for the prestigious Maxwell Award.
Award Presentation Details
The formal presentation of the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award will take place on March 14, 2026. The event will be held at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia. This occasion will also feature other significant awards from high school to professional football.
About the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award
Established in 2018, the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award honors stellar freshman performances in college football. It is named after Shaun Alexander, who had a distinguished career at the University of Alabama and the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks. Past recipients include:
| Year | Winner | School |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Trevor Lawrence | Clemson |
| 2019 | Kenneth Gainwell | Memphis |
| 2020 | Will Anderson Jr. | Alabama |
| 2021 | Brock Bowers | Georgia |
| 2022 | Drake Maye | North Carolina |
| 2023 | Caleb Downs | Alabama/Ohio State |
| 2024 | Colin Simmons | Texas |
The Maxwell Football Club oversees this award and more, celebrating excellence in football across various levels while promoting community involvement and academic achievement.
