AUBURN, Ala. – The 2018 Burlsworth Trophy announced its 69 nominees this week, and Auburn senior Tucker Brown made the list. The award is given annually to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on.
Brown walked on at Auburn in 2015 and has seen his role with the team grow every year. He's played every position on the offensive line at one point or another, and he's currently at tight end where he primarily serves as a blocker – though he caught his first career pass earlier this season at Mississippi State.
"It's a blast," Brown told the media last month. "I started out scout team four years ago and now working up to what I have, it's been a dream come true just getting to play every year. After you get a little bit, you always want more. It's been awesome being able to work and increase my role in the offense every year and special teams and just being able to contribute every game."
Brown grew up a diehard Auburn fan and always knew that he wanted to play football for the Tigers. However, it wasn't until he saw his older brother, Sam, walk on to the team in 2010 and be part of the national championship team that he realized his dream could become a reality.
"After I saw him do it, I was like I know it's possible," Brown said. "Even though I was small in high school, I could still walk on. So I had to give it a chance."
This marks the ninth year for the Burlsworth Trophy, which is named after former Arkansas walk-on and All-American offensive lineman Brandon Burlsworth. Previous winners of the award include Baker Mayfield, Matt McGloin and last year's winner, Washington State quarterback Luke Falk.
Auburn teammate and former walk-on Will Hastings was nominated for the award last year.
Greg Ostendorf is a Senior Writer for AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: Follow @greg_ostendorf