University of North Texas Athletics
Tyre Named to Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List
8/10/2026 11:00:00 AM | Football
Transfer from Western Carolina recognized on preseason watch list for most versatile player in college football
LOUISVILLE, KY. – Senior wide receiver James Tyre has been named to the watch list Paul Hornung Award presented by Texas Roadhouse for the 2026 season.
Now in its 16th season, the Paul Hornung Award is given annually to the most versatile player in major college football by the Louisville Sports Commission in memory of the late football legend and Louisville native Paul Hornung.
Tyre, a transfer from Western Carolina, is expected to play a large role in both the offense and special teams units for UNT this season.
Last season with the Catamounts, Tyre caught 68 passes for 832 yards and 11 touchdowns to help WCU finish as the top passing offense in FCS. He was also dynamic in the punt return game averaging 10.1 yards per return.
Tyre is the first player to be recognized by the Hornung Award since DT Sheffield was named to the Hornung Award Honor Roll twice during the 2024 season.
Now in its 16th season, the Paul Hornung Award is given annually to the most versatile player in major college football by the Louisville Sports Commission in memory of the late football legend and Louisville native Paul Hornung.
Tyre, a transfer from Western Carolina, is expected to play a large role in both the offense and special teams units for UNT this season.
Last season with the Catamounts, Tyre caught 68 passes for 832 yards and 11 touchdowns to help WCU finish as the top passing offense in FCS. He was also dynamic in the punt return game averaging 10.1 yards per return.
Tyre is the first player to be recognized by the Hornung Award since DT Sheffield was named to the Hornung Award Honor Roll twice during the 2024 season.
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Players Mentioned
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