July 8, 2014
New York, N.Y.-----San Jose State University sophomore Billy Freemanis one of 40 tight ends named to the 2014 John Mackey Award Preseason Watch List.
Named in honor of the late National Football League Hall of Famer who starred for the Baltimore Colts in the 1960's, the award recognizes the top tight end in college football.
A redshirt freshman from Red Mountain High in Mesa, Ariz., Freeman was one of the most consistent receivers in the Spartans' passing offense in 2013. He was one of two players to catch a pass in all 12 games and finished with 27 receptions for 427 yards and two touchdowns. His receiving yardage total was tops for all Football Bowl Subdivision tight ends. During the season, the honorable mention All-Mountain West selection had six receptions of 30 or more yards.
Freeman is one of three Mountain West tight ends and one of nine sophomores named to the Watch List. The Watch List will be updated on October 13. Semifinalists will be announced on November 17 with finalists named on November 24. The 2014 award winner will be presented on December 10 on the Home Depot College Football Awards Red Carpet Show on ESPNU.
Freeman is the third Spartan named to a preseason Watch List. Previously, David Peterson was named to the Rimington Trophy Watch List for the best center in the country. Linebacker Christian Tagowas named to the College Football Performance Awards Watch List for linebackers.
Season tickets for the Spartans' five home games in Spartan Stadium are available and are on sale. Call (408) 924-SJTX or visit www.sjsuspartans.com to order your tickets.