Durkin’s 2025 Season Sets the Stage
Florida’s Patrick Durkin has been named to the 2026 Lou Groza Award preseason watch list, marking his first appearance on the prestigious roster. The honor spotlights the nation’s most accurate placekickers heading into the upcoming college football season.
Durkin’s reliability was on full display in 2025, as he converted 25 of 28 field‑goal attempts and 41 of 42 extra‑point tries. His 89.29 % field‑goal accuracy ranked second among all returning kickers who made at least 20 field goals, underscoring his consistency under pressure.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Lou Groza Award, named after NFL Hall of Famer Lou Groza, has recognized the best college placekicker for decades. Selection involves a panel of more than 100 FBS head coaches, media members, former finalists and current NFL kickers, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of performance and impact.
Durkin’s accolades extend beyond raw numbers; he was crowned American Special Team Player of the Year, a testament to his influence on special‑teams units and his reputation among peers and coaches.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Ceremony
The road to the award will culminate with the announcement of semifinalists on November 17, followed by the final three contenders on November 24. The national winner will be revealed on December 10 during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN, where Durkin hopes to add his name to the list of legends.
If Durkin can maintain his precision and contribute to Florida’s special‑teams success, his candidacy could reshape expectations for placekickers in the modern game, blending technical skill with clutch performance.