Rutgers football announced its 2026 spring awards today, recognizing three players for their efforts during the spring practice window and the off-season. These awards are usually announced during halftime of the Rutgers spring game; however, this year’s traditions continued despite the cancellation of the spring game. These awards are meant to honor the most improved offensive and defensive players, and the player who showed the most physical and mental toughness throughout the spring.
Named in memory of former Scarlet Knight running back Mark Mills and awarded to the offensive player who, through determination, dedication, and hard work, has shown the most improvement during the offseason and spring practices.
Houston joined the team last season and appeared in two games in 2025 despite battling injury, like much of the wide receiver room. Jourdin was mentioned by Dave Brock specifically for doing a great job in the spring practices before Brock went on to talk about his impressive quickness for a receiver of his size.
“He’s everything I think we thought he would be when we brought him here, and now you have a chance to kind of see it develop in front of your own eyes,” Rutgers wide receiver coach Dave Brock.
Named in memory of former Scarlet Knight defensive tackle Doug Smith and awarded to the defensive player who through determination, dedication and hard work has shown the most improvement during the offseason and spring practices.
Ofurie played in all 12 games last season for Rutgers and has over 30 games of experience overall in a Scarlet uniform. He originally committed to Rutgers as a wide receiver but ended up switching to defensive back in 2024. In 2025, he made five tackles and is expected to take on a much bigger role in 2026. According to STUD’s coach, Charlie Noonan, Ofurie has been playing some of his best football for that position group and was showered with praise during Noonan’s press conference earlier in the month.
Named after former Scarlet Knight All-America quarterback Frank Burns and awarded to the player who demonstrates extraordinary mental and physical toughness during the spring.
Blake was originally part of the 2023 recruiting class. After redshirting his freshman year, Blake would prove himself to be an impressive extra blocker in the 19 games he has appeared in since. His catching game still needs some work, as he has only hauled in 3 passes for 13 yards, but he has taken a major step in his overall development this offseason, according to the staff.