Danny Wuerffel has added another prestigious honor to a career already overflowing with accolades. The former Florida Gators quarterback was named the recipient of the Francis “Reds” Bagnell Award, a distinction that celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to college football. Wuerffel will be recognized at the 89th annual Maxwell Awards ceremony on March 14 at the Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre in Atlanta.
For anyone who followed college football in the mid-90s, Wuerffel’s name is synonymous with excellence. From 1993 to 1996, he was the beating heart of Steve Spurrier’s high-octane “Fun ‘n’ Gun” offense at Florida.
In 1995 and 1996, he led the nation in passing touchdowns-no small feat considering the era’s defensive schemes were built to punish quarterbacks who dared to air it out. But Wuerffel wasn’t just fearless-he was surgical.
His 1996 season stands as one of the most decorated in college football history. That year, Wuerffel won the Heisman Trophy, the Maxwell Award, and the Campbell Trophy, and led the Gators to their first-ever national championship with a statement win over rival Florida State.
He also helped Florida capture four SEC titles during his time in Gainesville and left the program with 17 NCAA and school records under his belt. That level of production and leadership earned him a spot in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2013.
Wuerffel’s NFL career was less headline-grabbing. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1997, he spent time with several teams before retiring in 2004. But his impact on the game didn’t end when he hung up his cleats.
In fact, you could argue that Wuerffel’s post-playing career has been just as meaningful as his time on the field. In 2005, the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy was established in his honor, recognizing college football players who excel not just athletically, but in community service and leadership-values Wuerffel has championed throughout his life. He founded Desire Street Ministries and the Wuerffel Foundation to support underserved communities and foster long-term change.
Back in Gainesville, his legacy is etched in stone-and bronze. Florida retired his number and inducted him into the program’s Ring of Honor in 2011, a fitting tribute to one of the most impactful players in school history.
Now, with the Francis “Reds” Bagnell Award, Wuerffel’s contributions to college football-on and off the field-are being recognized once again. It’s a reminder that greatness in this sport isn’t just measured in touchdowns or trophies, but in the lasting impact a player can have on the game and the people around it. Wuerffel checks all those boxes-and then some.