North Carolina State University Athletics
Isaiah Shirley Named to AllState Wuerffel Trophy Watch List
8/11/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
ATLANTA, Ga. – For the sixth straight season, NC State football has had a player recognized on the AllState Wuerffel Trophy Watch List. This season, senior defensive tackle Isaiah Shirley has been nominated for his community service and impact.
Shirley, who was also named to the AFCA Good Works Team in July, is one of 113 nominees up for college football's premier award for community service.
The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy recognizes student-athletes who use their platforms to serve others and make a positive impact in their communities. Named after Danny Wuerffel, the 1996 Heisman Trophy winner and former University of Florida quarterback, the award reflects his lifelong commitment to leadership, service and unity.
It's an honor to recognize these student-athletes for the difference they are making in the lives of others, Wuerffel said. Their commitment to service demonstrates the powerful impact college athletes can have both on and off the field.
Shirley is just one of 12 ACC players to be nominated. A SAAC representative since 2023, he has led and participated in numerous community outreach events, volunteering his time, including serving as a weekly mentor for the Neighbor-to-Neighbor program, which provides mentorship to promote strong decision-making and goal setting.
He has spoken to numerous high schools, sharing his testimony and offering advice based on his beliefs. Involved with Uplifting Athletes, which is an organization that uses sport to build a community that invests in the lives of people impacted by rare diseases.
The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy finalists will be selected by the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy National Selection Committee, with input from a fan vote. The 2026 recipient will be announced live on The Home Depot College Football Awards show on December 11 and serve as captain of the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.
The 2026 recipient and finalists will be invited to join Wuerffel in New York City for Heisman Trophy events, including the Wuerffel Foundation's Picklebowl: Heisman Edition. The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Presentation Gala will follow in February 2027 at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.
