Hispanic Football Hall unveils college Player of the Year watch list
Free Press staff report | 10/9/2025, 6 p.m.
Fifteen college football standouts of Hispanic heritage were named Wednesday to the first-ever watch list for the Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Award.
The list, released by the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame, highlights athletes who have secured starting roles this season and who are making an impact on and off the field.
“Shining a light on Hispanic athletes who are already proving themselves on some of the biggest stages in college football is exactly why we created this watch list,” said Ron Rivera, a founding board member of the Hall.
“These athletes are not just outstanding performers on the field, they’re role models for countless young people who see themselves in their success,” said fellow board member Anthony Muñoz. “The college watch list is a powerful way to celebrate heritage, talent and the bright future of Hispanic football.”
The 2025 watch list is made up of Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar; USC offensive lineman Micah Bañuelos; Arkansas offensive lineman Fernando Carmona; Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion; Alabama tight end Josh Cuevas; Arizona State kicker Jesus Gomez; New Mexico State linebacker Tyler Martinez; Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza; Ohio quarterback Parker Navarro; Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia; Penn State wide receiver Trebor Peña; San Diego State kicker Gabriel Plascencia; Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez; Penn State linebacker Tony Rojas; and Notre Dame defensive lineman Gabriel Rubio.
The Hispanic College Football Player of the Year Award will be presented at the conclusion of the season.