NC State continues to pile up players on preseason football award watch lists. Two more joined the club Monday with all-purpose back Jaylen Samuels named as a candidate for the Paul Hornung Award and linebacker Airius Moore gaining recognition as a player to watch for the Butkus Award. Samuels, who contributes to the Wolfpack in a number of different roles — including running back, wide receiver and tight end — figures to be a leading contender for the Hornung Award, which honors the most versatile player in college football. He is joined on the watch list by Duke running back/kick returner Shaun Wilson. Moore earned his spot on the list for the Butkus Award as the nation’s top college linebacker by compiling 86 tackles last season and leading State with 13.5 tackles for a loss. He opened eyes nationally by being named the defensive MVP in the Wolfpack’s Independence Bowl win against Vanderbilt. Appalachian State’s Eric Boggs was also named as a preseason Butkus Award candidate. Other NC State players previously named to award watch lists include defensive end Bradley Chubb (Bednarik Award, Nagurski Trophy, Outland Trophy), tight end Cole Cook (Mackey Award), punter A.J. Cole (Guy), defensive tackle B.J. Hill (Nagurski, Outland) and offensive guard Tony Adams (Outland). The winners of each honor will be officially announced on Thursday, Dec. 7 as part of a made-for-television awards show.
