BENTONVILLE, Ark. (JMU Athletics) – James Madison running back Tyler Purdy has been named a nominee for the 2024 Burlsworth Trophy, which is awarded to the most outstanding college football player who started as a walk-on.

Purdy is one of 78 Football Bowl Subdivision players nominated for the honor, which is now in its 15th year.

The Chesterfield, Mo., native is a unique nominee in that he was a former walk-on both at the FCS and FBS levels. Purdy began his career as a walk-on for Head Coach Bob Chesney at Holy Cross (2019-23) before earning a scholarship and gaining over 1,700 all-purpose yards with 11 touchdowns for the Crusaders while earning Second Team All-Patriot League honors in 2020.

After graduating from Holy Cross, Purdy joined the Dukes in January 2024 for his final season as a walk-on. After just three games and following JMU’s win at North Carolina, Purdy was awarded his JMU scholarship in the locker room from Chesney’s father, Bob Chesney Sr.

Purdy appeared in JMU’s first eight games, making two starts at running back before suffering a season-ending injury. In his eight appearances for the Dukes this fall, he had 36 carries for 161 yards (4.5 avg.) and two touchdowns while making six receptions for 44 yards.

He becomes JMU’s second-ever nominee for the Burlsworth Trophy, joining former defensive lineman James Carpenter, who was a top-three finalist in 2023.

Three finalists for the Burlsworth Trophy will be announced later this season, and the winner of the award will be unveiled on Dec. 9 at the Burlsworth Trophy award ceremony at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Ark.

— JMU Athletics —