POCATELLO, Idaho – Idaho State football wide receiver Chedon James has been named one of the 30 finalists for the 2023 Walter Payton Award. a prestigious national recognition given to the FCS Division I football player who demonstrates outstanding offensive skills.
The award, first presented in 1987 and in its 37th season, is named for legendary running back Walter Payton, who starred at Jackson State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Affectionately known as the Heisman of the FCS, its past recipients include Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp and Trey Lance.
The winner, to be selected by a national voting panel, will be announced at the FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 6 in Frisco, Texas – the eve of the FCS championship game.
James ended the season the leading receiver for the Bengals and one of the top receivers in the conference. With 102 receptions, 1,045 yards (10.2 ypc), 8 TDs (11 games) James lit up the Big Sky in the 2023 season
James finishes the season ranked No. 1 in the nation in receptions per game, No. 3 in total receiving yards and No. 4 in receiving yards per game.
The winner, to be selected by a national voting panel, will be announced at the FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 6 in Frisco, Texas – the eve of the FCS championship game.
