Two UNLV players make Maxwell Award watch list for first time in program history

Monday, Aug. 3, 2026 | 12:22 p.m. By Ray Brewer Jackson Arnold, still competing for UNLV’s starting backfield role, has already been placed on the Maxwell Award Watch List. He is one of two Rebels named to the list, marking the first time the program has had multiple players recognized, the assemblage said. Senior running back Jai’Den Thomas joins Arnold on the watch list, becoming the first Rebel to earn a repeat selection. Thomas ranks eighth in UNLV history with 2,457 career rushing yards and fifth with 31 rushing touchdowns. UNLV is among only 14 schools nationwide with more than one player on the 81‑person watch list. The honor comes as some feel the Rebels are a favorite to secure an at‑large bid in the expanded 12‑team College Football Playoff. Arnold is the first UNLV backfield player to appear on the Maxwell watch list since Armani Rogers did so in 2018. He continues to vie with Alex Orji for the starting position. The Maxwell Award is presented at the end of each season to the nation’s outstanding college football player.