The Kansas football team received positive news this week when one of its players was named to a national award watch list. Emmanuel Henderson Jr., the transfer wide receiver from Alabama, was added to the 2025 Biletnikoff Award watch list.
This award recognizes the most outstanding receiver in college football each year, regardless of position, and is supported by the Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation.
Emmanuel Henderson Jr. earned his way onto the Biletnikoff watch list with his tremendous play
Henderson didn’t make this list during the preseason, but has earned his way onto it during the season. The Jayhawks are 3-2 (1-1), and Henderson has played a significant role in the team’s early success.
Henderson played three seasons for the Crimson Tide, but was used sparingly. He produced five catches for 96 yards and no scores at Alabama. He also contributed some on special teams there, returning six kickoffs for 115 yards.
At Kansas, Henderson has been a star. In five games, he has 23 receptions, 435 yards, and four touchdowns. Against Cincinnati last week, He caught a 93-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jalon Daniels, highlighting his playmaking ability.
The week before, against West Virginia, Henderson took the opening kickoff of the second half to the house, a 94-yard scoring return. He has seven returns for 234 yards, and a touchdown. He’s averaging a whopping 33.4 yards per return.
His early-season heroics caught the attention of the Tallahassee Quarterback Club Foundation. He leads KU in receptions, yards, and receiving touchdowns, plus all of his special team contributions.
Henderson should be proud of his addition to the 2025 Biletnikoff Award watch list. He’s been a fantastic addition to the Kansas football team and has quickly become Daniels’ favorite target. He has the ability to work shorter routes and to get separation downfield.
As the season progresses, it will be fun to watch how Henderson and the Jayhawks improve. Hopefully, he will continue to impress and make the list of finalists, and maybe even win the award.