Chester Named To Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List
August 11, 2026 | Football
STARKVILLE — Mississippi State offensive lineman DJ Chester has been named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, as announced by the Wuerffel Foundation on Tuesday.
The award, known as college football’s premier honor for community service, recognizes Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) student-athletes who demonstrate exemplary leadership and service in their communities while excelling both in the classroom and on the field.
After 24 career games with 14 starts at LSU, Chester will make his Mississippi State debut on Sept. 5 when the Bulldogs host ULM. Chester’s college career includes 2024 Freshman All-SEC and 2024 SEC Academic Honor Roll honors. Recently, Chester's JDC Thrive Foundation partnered with the Dream Center Golden Triangle's Bedz 4 Kidz drive to provide a safe and comfortable place for kids in need to lay their head every night.
NIL for Good: DJ Chester giving back with JDC Thrive
Well over 20 volunteers from the State football team locked in with Chester, the Dream Center team and many more to help make this possible.
WATCH ON STATE 1878
The Wuerffel Trophy is named after Danny Wuerffel, the 1996 Heisman Trophy winner, reflecting his lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and unity. The 2026 watch list includes 113 nominees nationwide. "It’s an honor to recognize these student-athletes for the difference they are making in the lives of others," Wuerffel said. "Their commitment to service demonstrates the powerful impact college athletes can have both on and off the field."
In September, 11 student-athletes will be selected from the watch list to the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and become semifinalists for the trophy. The 2026 recipient will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show on Dec. 11.
For the most up-to-date information on the Bulldogs, follow MSU football on X, like them on Facebook and join them on Instagram by searching for "HailStateFB."
