TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — West Virginia’s DJ Epps and Missouri’s Donovan Olugbode have been added to the 2026 Biletnikoff Award Watch List, the Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation announced October 22.
The two wide receivers represent the third round of in-season additions since the foundation released its preseason watch list August 19. Both players are identified as October 22 additions on the official 2026 watch list.
The award recognizes the outstanding receiver in the Football Bowl Subdivision for a single season. Players can be added throughout the year based on demonstrated performance rather than projected potential.
Award Eligibility Extends Beyond Wide Receivers
Despite its association with standout wideouts, the Biletnikoff Award is open to any eligible player who catches a pass, including tight ends, running backs, and slot receivers.
Florida tight end Kyle Pitts was a finalist in 2020, illustrating the award’s broader eligibility. Selection is based on the current season rather than a player’s career accomplishments.
The foundation publishes its eligibility and voting criteria for public review.
National Committee Selects the Winner
According to the foundation’s announcement, the Biletnikoff Award National Selection Committee includes 625 college football journalists, commentators, announcers, previous award winners, and other former receivers.
The committee selects the semifinalists, three finalists, and the eventual recipient. Foundation trustees do not participate in voting. The committee’s membership is available on the award’s website.
USC’s Makai Lemon won the 2025 award and was honored at the foundation’s March 28, 2026, banquet in Tallahassee.
Foundation Supports North Florida Students
Beyond administering the award, the all-volunteer Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation provides college and vocational scholarships to North Florida high school seniors who have overcome significant challenges.
The foundation reported providing more than 360 scholarships with benefits exceeding $7 million through 2026. Its fundraising goal is to reach $10 million in cumulative scholarship awards by 2030.
Scholarship recipients are recognized for academic achievement and extracurricular involvement. Athletic participation is not required.
The award honors Fred Biletnikoff, the former Florida State and Oakland Raiders receiver who earned induction into both the college and professional football halls of fame.
Source: Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation’s October 22, 2026, announcement and official Biletnikoff Award Watch List.
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