RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesAnother week has begun, which brings the reveal of another watchlist for postseason awards.
Monday, the Paul Hornung Award revealed its initial watchlist for the 2026 season, which included Auburn defensive back and return specialist Rayshawn Pleasant. The Hornung Award is awarded annually to the most versatile player in college football.
The SEC has the most representatives on the Hornung Award Watchlist with 10, more than the Big 10 (5), ACC (6), and Big 12 (6). Pleasant joins South Carolina's Vicari Swain, Oklahoma's Isaiah Sategna, and Florida's Jaden Baugh as SEC representatives on the watchlist.
Pleasant showcased his versatility at Tulane during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, making him an attractive piece in the transfer portal ahead of the 2025 season. He ultimately signed with Auburn and lived up to the hype as a defensive back and returner by logging 16 tackles and a career-high two interceptions in Auburn's win over Arkansas, one being a pick-six. He added two more touchdowns to his list as a returner, one being a 98-yard kickoff return in Auburn's season-opening win at Baylor.
Pleasant will look to boost his numbers as a senior for Auburn and possibly end the season as Auburn's first Paul Hornung Award winner.
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