Samuel Named to Hornung Watch List
8/10/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
Sophomore standout Demetres Samuel Jr. has been named to the Paul Hornung Award Watch List – presented annually to the nation's most versatile player on college football.
Samuel, who plays both cornerback and wide receiver for the Orange while also returning punts last season, enters his second season with the program in 2026. He started every game last season at cornerback – alongside Preseason All-American Chris Peal – as part of one of the country's top cornerback duos.
Samuel finished fourth in the ACC's defensive rookie of the year voting in 2025, which is especially impressive given he reclassified in high school to graduate a year early and played the entire season at 17 years old.
He was fourth nationally among freshmen with nine pass breakups last season, adding an interception, 45 tackles and 2.0 tackles for loss.
Samuel also had limited offensive play last season as well, hauling in one reception for 10 yards, and returned four punts for 39 yards.
Samuel and the Orange return to action on Sept. 5 in the JMA Wireless Dome, hosting New Hampshire. Tickets for the full home slate are on sale now at Cuse.com/FootballTickets, which features six exciting matchups in the Loud House!
Samuel, who plays both cornerback and wide receiver for the Orange while also returning punts last season, enters his second season with the program in 2026. He started every game last season at cornerback – alongside Preseason All-American Chris Peal – as part of one of the country's top cornerback duos.
Samuel finished fourth in the ACC's defensive rookie of the year voting in 2025, which is especially impressive given he reclassified in high school to graduate a year early and played the entire season at 17 years old.
He was fourth nationally among freshmen with nine pass breakups last season, adding an interception, 45 tackles and 2.0 tackles for loss.
Samuel also had limited offensive play last season as well, hauling in one reception for 10 yards, and returned four punts for 39 yards.
Samuel and the Orange return to action on Sept. 5 in the JMA Wireless Dome, hosting New Hampshire. Tickets for the full home slate are on sale now at Cuse.com/FootballTickets, which features six exciting matchups in the Loud House!
Players Mentioned
DB/WR
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