ALBANY, Ga. – The Black College Football Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 Black College Football Player of the Year Watch List, and Albany State University is proudly represented by four standout student-athletes: quarterback Isaiah Knowles, running back Tiant Wyche, wide receiver Javion Jackson, and tight end Gentry Sparks.

The Watch List recognizes the nation's top players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who have demonstrated exceptional talent, leadership, and impact on the field. This year's list includes 49 of the most dynamic players in Black college football, and Albany State is one of only a few programs with four honorees.

Knowles, a two-time team captain, returns after a stellar 2024 season in which he threw for 2,555 yards and 32 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the most efficient quarterbacks in Division II. Wyche emerged as a versatile offensive weapon, consistently producing in both the rushing and passing game. Jackson proved to be one of the league's most dangerous receivers, delivering explosive plays and key touchdowns, while Sparks became a reliable and dominant presence at tight end, excelling as both a pass catcher and blocker.

"This recognition speaks volumes about the talent, hard work, and dedication of these young men," said Head Coach Quinn Gray, Sr. "Each of them has made an incredible impact on our program, and we are proud to see them recognized on a national stage. They are not only outstanding athletes but also strong leaders in the locker room and the community."

The Black College Football Player of the Year Award is presented annually by the Black College Football Hall of Fame to the most outstanding football player from an HBCU. The winner will be announced during the 2025 Black College Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Golden Rams open their 2025 season on August 30 on the road against Shaw University in Raleigh, N.C., before beginning conference play at home on September 27 against Allen University. With four players on the Watch List, Albany State enters the season with high expectations and a roster built for success.

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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently fields teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football with all teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.