Photo by: Maria Lysaker | Rice Athletics
Anigbogu Nominated for Burlsworth Trophy
11/1/2023 11:58:00 AM | Football
Honors most outstanding player who began his career as a walk-on
Rice safety Chike Anigbogu is one of 73 players nominated for the 2023 Burlsworth Trophy, presented annually to the most outstanding collegiate football player who began his career as a walk-on. The award is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth, former University of Arkansas All-American offensive lineman who joined the Razorbacks as a walk-on.
Anigbogu was named captain of the Owls' special teams in a vote of his teammates before the start of the 2023 campaign. He has been credited with a career-high 16 tackles this year including a crucial fourth-down sack to end East Carolina's final threat in the Owls 24-17 win. He has played in 40 games in his career and has a pair of starts, including the opener game this season at Texas.
Burlsworth walked on at the University of Arkansas in 1994. He became a three-year starter and was eventually named an All-American in 1998. Burlsworth was selected as the 63rd overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL draft but was tragically killed in a car accident 11 days later. The Burlsworth Foundation was created in his memory and supports children's physical and spiritual needs, particularly those with limited opportunities.
The Burlsworth Trophy award ceremony will honor the three finalists and announce the 2023 winner on December 4, at 7:00 pm CST at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas.
Players Mentioned
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