Ca'Lil Valentine
Photo from Illinois Athletics Media Box

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Illinois running back Ca'Lil Valentine has been named to the 2026 Doak Walker Award preseason watchlist. 

Illinois Athletics said that Valentine is one of 12 Big Ten players on the list. 

The award is given annually to the top running back in college football. 

Valentine led the Illini with 614 rushing yards on 131 carries in 13 games during the 2025 campaign, including six starts. 

Former Notre Dame standout Jeremiyah Love received the honor last season. 

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