ATLANTA, GA — Voting has officially opened for two of the most prestigious honours in American college football — the Maxwell Award and the Chuck Bednarik Award. The Maxwell Football Club has invited members of the football media to participate in selecting the nation’s top players, with ballots open between 17 and 23 November.
The Maxwell Award, presented annually since 1937, recognises the best all-around player in college football, while the Chuck Bednarik Award, introduced in 1995, honours the defensive player of the year. Both are regarded among the highest individual distinctions in the college game and are often seen as precursors to professional success in the NFL.
Selection Committee and Process
Announcing the opening of voting, the Maxwell Football Club confirmed that this year’s semifinalists have already been identified by its selection committee. That committee comprises a distinguished group including college football analyst Phil Steele, senior evaluators from Pro Football Focus (PFF), and members of the Maxwell Football Club’s leadership team.
In a statement addressed to media members, Mark Wolpert, Executive Director, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Maxwell Football Club, said:
“We are excited to announce that voting has officially OPENED for the legendary Maxwell Award and Chuck Bednarik Award! As a valued member of the football community, we invite you to cast your ballots and participate in this important part of the awards process.”
Wolpert emphasised the integrity and confidentiality of the process, adding that each ballot is individually assigned and securely counted.
“This ballot is confidential and uniquely assigned to you. Do not share the ballot link. Every vote is official, securely counted, and critical to the integrity of this 89-year-old process.”
He noted that the semifinalists represent the “nation’s elite” and that the voting process plays a crucial role in determining the final honours.
“These athletes have already been identified as the nation’s elite semifinalists by our distinguished selection committee, which includes college football legend Phil Steele, top analysts from Pro Football Focus (PFF), and members of the Maxwell Football Club’s leadership team. Your vote now determines which of these extraordinary players will be honored as the very best as a National Finalist.”
Deadlines and Announcement Dates
The Club confirmed that voting will close at noon Eastern Time on 23 November, with the finalists for both awards set to be announced on 25 November. The winners will be revealed on 11 December during The Home Depot College Football Awards Show on ESPN, one of the most watched events in the American collegiate sports calendar.
The Maxwell Football Club expressed its appreciation to the sporting media and the wider football community for their continued engagement.
“Your participation is crucial in recognizing the top players in college football, and we appreciate your involvement in the process,” Wolpert added. “Thank you for your continued coverage of college football. We look forward to your support in honoring the best in the game!”
89th Annual Maxwell Awards Gala Returns to Atlanta
Beyond the voting process, the organisation confirmed that preparations are underway for the 89th Annual Maxwell National Awards Gala Weekend, which will be held in Atlanta, Georgia, from 13 to 14 March 2026. The gala will bring together some of the sport’s biggest names and legends for two days of celebration.
The Club said attendees could expect “exclusive events, an all-inclusive table-seated dinner, cocktail party, full awards show & more.” The gala has long been regarded as one of the premier social and recognition events in the American football calendar, attracting players, coaches, analysts, and industry leaders alike.
An upgraded Maxwell Football Club website is currently being developed to support next year’s activities, including full details about the 2026 gala and ticket access once available.
Tradition of Excellence
Founded in 1935, the Maxwell Football Club has maintained a strong reputation as one of the most respected organisations in American sport, with a long-standing tradition of celebrating excellence on and off the field. The Maxwell Award and the Chuck Bednarik Award continue to serve as benchmarks for athletic performance, sportsmanship, and leadership.
Voting for the 2025 semifinalists remains open until 23 November, with all ballots required to be submitted by noon Eastern Time.
