Sun Jan 04 02:10:00 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text about the Jerry Rice Award:

Mercer Quarterback Braden Atkinson Wins 2025 Jerry Rice Award

Dec. 3, 2025 – Mercer University quarterback Braden Atkinson has been named the recipient of the 2025 Jerry Rice Award, given annually to the most outstanding freshman player in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). The announcement was made today by Stats Perform FCS.

Atkinson dominated the voting, receiving 51 out of 54 first-place votes from a national panel of over 40 sports information and media relations directors, broadcasters, writers, and other dignitaries. His stellar performance during the 2025 regular season propelled Mercer to a 9-0 record after he took over as the starting quarterback in Week 3. Atkinson completed 68.1 percent of his passes for 3,448 yards and 34 touchdowns with only seven interceptions, adding a rushing touchdown to his impressive statistics.

The Jerry Rice Award, named after NFL legend and Mississippi Valley State alumnus Jerry Rice, has been presented annually since 2011. Rice was a standout wide receiver in both college and the NFL. He earned 13 NFL Pro Bowl trips, 10 first-team All-Pros, three Super Bowls, and a Super Bowl MVP. He also set records for receptions, yards, and touchdowns during his college career.

Atkinson is the 15th player to receive the prestigious honor, joining a list of notable past winners including NFL stars Cooper Kupp, Chase Edmonds, and Trey Lance. Quarterbacks have been recognized most often, claiming the award seven times since its inception. Running backs have received the award five times, with one wide receiver and one linebacker also being honored. No school has had multiple winners.

Atkinson and the other STATS FCS national award winners will be honored at the STATS FCS Awards Banquet and Presentation.

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