As Colin Simmons prepares for his third season in the Forty Acres, the Dallas native has high expectations. He has shown a talent for frustrating offensive coordinators over the last few years and is now in the running for a national award. On Tuesday, Simmons was named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list. The award recognizes players nationwide who exemplify community service, academic excellence and athletic achievement.
Tuesday's announcement marked the first time in Simmons' career that his name appeared on the watch list. Only two players in program history have won the award: Sam Acho and Michael Taaffe. Now Simmons is looking to make history and become the third.
Colin Simmons has been named to the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watchlist 🤘@ColinSimmons__ x @WuerffelTrophypic.twitter.com/I15Mg4elBA
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) August 11, 2026
When Simmons is not making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks he has given back to the community through Clay's Color Crew. It is a non-profit that that supports the Autism Spectrum Disorder community. The non-profit brings autism resources to underserved and lower-economic areas in South Dallas and beyond.
Although the award focuses on giving back to the community, Simmons has made a name for himself with his stellar play. In 29 collegiate games, the Duncanville High alum has recorded 91 total tackles and 21 sacks. He has also recorded one interception and five pass deflections in that span.
Three clips from the Texas practice of DL vs OL reps:
— Evan Vieth (@EvanVieth) August 12, 2026
Melvin Siani on Colin Simmons
Devin Coleman against a DT
Dylan Sikorski v Hero Kanu pic.twitter.com/Z0pPD8GPQO
In less than a month, 11 players from the watch list will be named to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and become semifinalists for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy. That list will then be narrowed to finalists, who will be selected by the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy National Selection Committee, with input from a fan vote. The winner will then be announced at the Home Depot College Football Awards Show on Dec. 11.
For now, Simmons' focus is on helping Texas move closer to ending its national title drought.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Longhorns star Colin Simmons on Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watchlist