University of Delaware Athletics
10/21/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
DALLAS – University of Delaware football OL Steven Demboski has been named to a 2026 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Semifinalist, the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Selection Committee announced Tuesday. The Hillsdale, N.J. native is one of 20 semifinalists for the award, the only one from Conference USA, and one of four Group of Six players. He is the first player in program history to be named a semifinalist for this award.
The Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award is presented annually to the FBS college football player who has demonstrated a record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity, and sportsmanship both on and off the field. The award honors the type of exemplary character and commitment to community, family, and teammates demonstrated by Jason Witten, the 2012 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year and one of the most prominent role models in the game.
Demboski is a two-time team captain who leads through accountability, perseverance and a commitment to serving others. Inspired by the loss of his aunt to breast cancer, Demboski supports children and families affected by cancer through UDance and the B+ Foundation. He also volunteers at a local food pantry, promotes youth literacy and organizes charitable initiatives for underprivileged children. Academically, he earned his bachelor's degree in sport management and was named to the 2025-26 Conference USA Academic Honor Roll.
This season, the fifth-year center has been named to the Lombardi Award Watchlist, Outland Trophy Watchlist, Rimington Trophy Watchlist, Shriners Children's 1000 Watchlist, Wuerffel Trophy Watchlist, Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Watchlist, CUSA Preseason Watchlist, Athlon Sports All-CUSA First Team, Phil Steele All-CUSA First Team, Pro Football Network All-CUSA First Team, a HERO Sports G6 Third Team All-American, a Campbell Trophy Semifinalist, and an Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Nominee.
In 2026, Demboski has started every game at center for the Hens thus far, while being named a team captain for the second-consecutive year. Last season as a 2025 Second Team All-CUSA selection, he played and started in 11 games at center. According to PFF, he did not allow a sack all season in his first year as the full-time starter.
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The Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award is presented annually to the FBS college football player who has demonstrated a record of leadership by exhibiting exceptional courage, integrity, and sportsmanship both on and off the field. The award honors the type of exemplary character and commitment to community, family, and teammates demonstrated by Jason Witten, the 2012 NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year and one of the most prominent role models in the game.
Demboski is a two-time team captain who leads through accountability, perseverance and a commitment to serving others. Inspired by the loss of his aunt to breast cancer, Demboski supports children and families affected by cancer through UDance and the B+ Foundation. He also volunteers at a local food pantry, promotes youth literacy and organizes charitable initiatives for underprivileged children. Academically, he earned his bachelor's degree in sport management and was named to the 2025-26 Conference USA Academic Honor Roll.
This season, the fifth-year center has been named to the Lombardi Award Watchlist, Outland Trophy Watchlist, Rimington Trophy Watchlist, Shriners Children's 1000 Watchlist, Wuerffel Trophy Watchlist, Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Watchlist, CUSA Preseason Watchlist, Athlon Sports All-CUSA First Team, Phil Steele All-CUSA First Team, Pro Football Network All-CUSA First Team, a HERO Sports G6 Third Team All-American, a Campbell Trophy Semifinalist, and an Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Nominee.
In 2026, Demboski has started every game at center for the Hens thus far, while being named a team captain for the second-consecutive year. Last season as a 2025 Second Team All-CUSA selection, he played and started in 11 games at center. According to PFF, he did not allow a sack all season in his first year as the full-time starter.
TICKET INFORMATION
Get your 2026 Delaware football tickets now by visiting bluehens.com/fbtickets.
FOLLOW ON SOCIAL
For the latest on Delaware football, follow the Fightin' Blue Hens on X, Instagram, and like on Facebook.
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