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BYU tight end Kaneakua Friel was on Tuesday named as one of 37 players nominated for the John Mackey Award, given to the nation's most outstanding tight end.
Friel becomes the third BYU player named to a preseason award watch list, joining teammates Kyle Van Noy and JD Falslev (see below).
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In 2012, Friel was among the Football Bowl Subdivision's more productive tight ends, hauling in 30 passes for 305 yards and five touchdowns.
Friel opened the 2012 season with a flourish, securing six receptions for 101 yards and two TDs in the opener with Washington State. He was a popular early-season target, with 15 of his 30 catches coming in the first three games of the campaign.
Friel's finished 2012 second to wideout Cody Hoffman in touchdown receptions; his reception total was fourth on last year's team.
Friel has been listed as one of the country's top ten tight ends by ESPN college football analyst Danny Kanell, and tabbed as the nation's No. 16 TE by Phil Steele.
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BYU Football Players on 2013 Preseason Award Watch Lists
| Player | Position | Award | Recognition | No. of nominees | Semifinalists | Finalists | Winner | Sponsoring Organization |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JD Falslev | WR/KR | Paul Hornung Award | Most Versatile Player in Major College Football | 44 | N/A | December 2013 | January 2014 | Louisville Sports Commission |
| Kyle Van Noy | LB | Chuck Bednarik Award | College Defensive Player of the Year | 75 | Oct. 29 | Nov.25 | Dec.12 | Maxwell Football Club |
| Kaneakua Friel | TE | John Mackey Award | Nation's Most Outstanding Tight End | 37 | Nov. 18 | Nov. 25 | Dec. 12 | Friends of John Mackey |
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Photo: Jeffrey D. Allred, Deseret News
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