Illinois Purdue Football

Purdue running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. (3) is pursued by, left to right, Illinois' players Xavier Scott (14), Nicario Harper (0), Jer'Zhan Newton (4) and Miles Scott (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

 Michael Conroy

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - Two Illini team captains have been named to the 2026 College Football Comeback Player of the Year Award preseason watchlist. 

Illinois Athletics said offensive lineman Jake Renfro and defensive back Xavier Scott were chosen for the list. 

Renfro missed the final eight games of the 2025 season at Wisconsin due to injury, while Scott missed the Illini's final 10 games last season with an injury sustained against Western Michigan. 

The award is given to players who have overcome injury, illness, or other situations. 

Winners will be recognized at the Fiesta Bowl. 

Copyright 2026. WAND TV. All rights reserved.