Kansas State standout Tyler Lockett has been named the recipient of the Johnny “The Jet” Rodgers National College Football Return Specialist Award, the award committee announced Thursday.
Also announced were honors for UAB's J.J. Nelson as the most valuable kick returner, while Nebraska special teams star De’Mornay Pierson-El took home the most valuable punt returner award.
The Jet Award was established in 2011 to honor the best return specialist in NCAA Division I college football and is named for Rodgers, a former Nebraska wide receiver and return specialist, 1972 Heisman Trophy winner and member of the National College Football Hall of Fame. To be considered for the award, players must be a primary kick or punt returner for their team and be among the national leaders in return categories. They must also show leadership, courage, desire, and respect for authority and discipline.
