Cantwell, Wingo Named to Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Watch List

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami freshmen Jackson Cantwell and Somourian Wingo were named to the 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award watch list, the Maxwell Football Club announced Wednesday.

Cantwell arrived in Coral Gables as a consensus five-star prospect and one of the highest-rated players in the 2026 recruiting class. The Nixa, Mo., native was ranked as the nation’s No. 1 overall prospect by Rivals and the top offensive tackle by multiple recruiting services.

The 6-foot-8 offensive lineman became the first player at his position to receive Gatorade National Football Player of the Year honors. Cantwell was also selected for the Under Armour All-America Game after helping Nixa High School advance to the Missouri Class 6 state championship game.

Wingo joined the Hurricanes as a consensus four-star prospect from St. Augustine, Fla. The wide receiver was rated among the nation’s top 50 overall players and top 10 players at his position by multiple recruiting services.

Wingo caught 46 passes for 847 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior at St. Augustine High School. He added three rushing scores after recording 65 receptions for 1,040 yards and 12 touchdowns during his junior season. Wingo also earned Super 11 recognition from the Florida Times-Union.

The Shaun Alexander Award has recognized college football’s outstanding freshman since 2018. The honor is named for former Alabama running back and 2005 NFL MVP Shaun Alexander.

Fourteen semifinalists will be announced Nov. 4, followed by five finalists Dec. 2. The winner will be revealed Dec. 28 and formally recognized at the 90th Maxwell Awards on March 13, 2027, in Atlanta.