Notre Dame’s Aamil Wagner Named Finalist for Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year
In a season where Notre Dame’s offense lit up the scoreboard and the Irish pushed all the way to a national title appearance, junior offensive lineman Aamil Wagner stood out not just for what he did between the lines-but for everything he represents off the field, too.
Wagner has been named a finalist for the 2025 Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year, an award that honors college football players who show exceptional leadership, character, and service. And if you’ve followed Wagner’s journey, this recognition feels like a natural reflection of everything he’s poured into the game-and the people around him.
This isn’t the first time Wagner’s name has come up in award conversations this year. He was a semifinalist for both the **William V.
Campbell Trophy** and the Wuerffel Trophy, and earned a spot on the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team-a nod to his impact in the community. He’s not just checking boxes; he’s leading by example.
A Captain Anchoring a Dominant Offense
As a 2025 team captain, Wagner helped anchor one of the most efficient and explosive offenses in the country. Notre Dame’s offensive line wasn’t just solid-it was surgical.
The Irish finished the regular season ranked top-five nationally in both scoring offense (41.8 points per game) and team passing efficiency (168.61). That kind of production doesn’t happen without a line that’s in sync, and Wagner was a key part of that rhythm.
The numbers back it up. Notre Dame ranked 10th in passing yards per completion (14.11), 17th in fewest passes intercepted (6), and 18th in total offense (458.5 yards per game).
They also cracked the top 20 in third down conversion percentage (48.1%), rushing offense (203.4 yards per game), and completion percentage (67.2%). That’s balance, versatility, and execution-all built on the foundation of a line that gave its quarterback time and its backs space.
Wagner also played a major role in Notre Dame’s 2024 rushing attack, which ranked No. 4 among Power 4 teams in yards per carry (5.66) and No. 6 in overall rushing offense (210.8 yards per game). He started all 16 games during that campaign, earning the 2024 Notre Dame Football Scholar-Athlete Award along the way.
Leading Beyond the Game
Wagner’s leadership stretches far beyond the huddle. He completed his undergraduate degree in strategic management and is now pursuing a master’s in nonprofit administration-a fitting path for someone who’s made it his mission to give back.
At Notre Dame, Wagner is a driving force in player development programs, helping fellow student-athletes build skills in everything from goal-setting and leadership to financial literacy and networking. He’s not just thinking about Saturdays-he’s helping others prepare for life after the final whistle.
He also serves as president of the Notre Dame chapter of Uplifting Athletes, where he leads outreach and fundraising efforts to support families affected by rare diseases. Wagner doesn’t just lend his name to the cause-he plans events, builds relationships, and stays personally connected to the families impacted.
And his community involvement doesn’t stop there. Wagner regularly volunteers at a local senior center, homeless shelter, and church, and works with Just a Pair of Shoes, a nonprofit near his hometown that provides footwear to underserved kids. On campus, he’s an active member of both the Student-Athlete Advisory Council and Notre Dame Christian Athletes.
A Complete Leader in Every Sense
In an era where college football stars are often defined by highlight reels and draft projections, Aamil Wagner is building a legacy that goes well beyond the game. He’s helping shape one of the nation’s top offenses, yes-but he’s also helping shape lives, both in South Bend and beyond.
Being named a finalist for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year is a major honor. But for those who’ve watched Wagner lead, serve, and elevate those around him, it’s exactly what you’d expect from a player-and a person-who’s doing it the right way.