Mercer University’s quarterback Braden Atkinson has been honored with the prestigious Jerry Rice Award for 2025, recognizing him as the most outstanding freshman player in FCS football. The award, which has been presented annually since its inception in 2011 by Stats Perform FCS, is named after NFL legend Jerry Rice, a former star with the San Francisco 49ers. The accolade serves to highlight exceptional talent among freshman athletes in the Football Championship Subdivision.
Braden Atkinson’s impressive statistics during the 2025 regular season played a crucial role in securing the award. He completed 68.1 percent of his passes, amassing 3,448 yards and 34 touchdowns, with only seven interceptions. In addition, he contributed a rushing touchdown, leading Mercer to an undefeated 9-0 record against FCS opponents after taking over as the starting quarterback in Week 3. Atkinson received 51 out of 54 first-place votes, highlighting the strong endorsement from the national panel of sports officials, media relations directors, and others involved in FCS football.
The Jerry Rice Award exemplifies the rising talent within the FCS, acknowledging not only the accomplishments of current players but also honoring the legacy of Jerry Rice. Throughout his career, Rice made significant contributions to football, earning numerous accolades, including 13 Pro Bowl selections and induction into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame.
In the broader context of FCS awards, the Jerry Rice Award is one of five national recognitions, alongside the Walter Payton Award (FCS offensive player of the year), Buck Buchanan Award (FCS defensive player of the year), Eddie Robinson Award (FCS coach of the year), and the Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete of the Year. The winners of these awards are celebrated annually during a banquet, with the Jerry Rice Award recipient revealed after the regular season ends.
The history of the Jerry Rice Award showcases a variety of talents, with quarterbacks having clinched the award seven times, while running backs account for five wins. Past recipients include notable players like Cooper Kupp and Chase Edmonds, both of whom have gone on to successful careers in the NFL.
Atkinson has now joined this esteemed group, providing hopes for a bright future not only for himself as he progresses in his football career but also for the Mercer football program. His remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in the FCS and highlights the depth of talent that exists within college football today.