Villanova University quarterback Connor Watkins (Williamsport, Pa.) is one of 35 players named to the Walter Payton Award Preseason Watch List. The award, in its 38^th season, is given to the top player in FCS Football.
 
Watkins led Villanova to the 2023 CAA championship by completing 152-of-269 passes for 2,682 yards and 20 touchdowns to go with 96 carries for 378 yards and 10 scores.  Under Watkin's leadership, last year's offense produced 76 plays from scrimmage of 20 yards or longer, including 19 pass completions for 40 or more yards.
 
At last week's CAA Media Day, Watkins was named the league's preseason Offensive Player of the Year.
 
Watkins and the Wildcats begin the 2024 season on Thursday, Aug. 29, when Youngstown State visits Villanova Stadium.