UNC Football: Cedric Gray named to Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list

UNC football standout Cedric Gray has been named to the preseason watch list for the twentieth annual Lott IMPACT Trophy Award.

Heading into the 2023 season, UNC football standout Cedric Gray is once again expected to be one of the nation’s top defensive players.

Over the last week, it was announced that Gray is one of 42 players that have been named to the Lott IMPACT Trophy Watch List. The Charlotte, North Carolina native is just one of six ACC players on the list.

This award is the only one in major college football that considers character as part of its selection process. Named after NFL Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott, the award is presented annually to the player who is determined to be the Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year. This student-athlete is one that is identified as a player who has put together the biggest impact on his team not only on the field but off it as well.

The characteristics of this award are all ones that Lott showcased during his playing career. The word “IMPACT” has a deeper meaning, as each letter represents a different quality that recipients of this award showcase:

I-  Integrity
M- Maturity
P- Performance
A- Academics
C- Community
T- Tenacity

Gray has been a force to be reckoned with on the field, as his 145 tackles as a junior were the most among Power 5 qualifiers. Off the field, Gray continues to be a leader and a great representation of the UNC football program, as it’s no coincidence that he’s been selected for this prestigious watch list.

You can learn more about the Lott IMPACT Trophy and find out which student-athletes made the initial list by clicking here.

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