James Madison University announced its annual football team awards for the 2025 season on April 22, highlighting quarterback Alonza Barnett III, running back Wayne Knight, and linebacker Trent Hendrick as the program’s Most Valuable Players.
The awards recognize players for their performance and leadership during a season in which several individuals achieved notable honors. Barnett was named JMU’s Dean Ehlers Team MVP for the second consecutive year after being voted Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year. He is now the third quarterback in four years to receive this top recognition from the program.
Wayne Knight received the Gary Clark Offensive MVP award following his selection as a Second Team All-American and becoming JMU’s first finalist for the Paul Hornung Award, which is given to the nation’s outstanding all-purpose player. On defense, Trent Hendrick earned both Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year and Charles Haley Defensive MVP honors. Wide receiver Jayden Mines was recognized with the Challace McMillan Special Teams Award for his contributions on special teams.
Additional awards included Bob Yetzer Leadership Award to Hendrick, recognizing determination and leadership; Casey Carter Academic Achievement Award to kicker Morgan Suarez; Jack Cavanaugh Award to offensive lineman Pat McMurtrie and defensive lineman Immanuel Bush; Offensive Lineman of the Year to McMurtrie; Defensive Lineman of the Year to Sahir West; Hess-Green Award to Barnett for returning from injury without missing a start; John David Kraus Memorial Award to safety Jacob Thomas; Unsung Hero Award to nickel DJ Barksdale; Iron Dukes Award to center Zach Greenberg; and Doug West Scout Team MVPs awarded across offense (Blake Kendall), defense (Lee Johnson), and special teams (Miles Halbert & Chase Pensyl).
The announcement reflects James Madison University’s continued emphasis on athletic achievement, academic excellence, perseverance through adversity, and leadership within its football program.
