Alabama Football’s O.J. Howard Named Finalist for 2016 John Mackey Award

Alabama football senior O.J. Howard was selected as one of three finalists for the 2016 John Mackey Award, The Friends of John Mackey announced on Monday afternoon.

Howard has continued his steady play during his senior season, catching 30 passes for 359 yards and two touchdowns while averaging 12.0 yards per catch. He has at least one catch in every game this year and has improved as the season wears on, totaling 16 receptions for 150 yards and a touchdown across his last four games.  Howard has also shown impressive blocking skills this season, helping the Alabama’s ground game accumulate 2,777 yards through 11 contests to average 252.5 yards per game on the ground.

The Mackey Award is given annually to the most outstanding tight end in college football and has been presented each year since 2000. Howard is joined by fellow seniors Jake Butt of Michigan and Clemson’s Jordan Leggett.

The 2016 John Mackey Award recipient will be announced on Dec. 7, 2016, and presented live on Dec. 8 at The Home Depot College Football Awards Red Carpet Show airing at 6 p.m. ET on ESPNU.