IRVING, Texas —After distinguishing himself on the field, in the classroom and in the community, William & Mary senior tight end Sean McElwain was selected as a semifinalist for the 2026 Campbell Trophy.
 
The award, which is announced by the National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame, honors an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation for combined academic success, football performance and exemplary leadership.
 
McElwain is one of 206 distinguished semifinalists vying for the national honor.
 
A two-time all-conference selection, McElwain has established himself among the nation's top tight ends throughout his career and was ranked as the sixth-best FCS player at the position by HERO Sports during the preseason.
 
Chosen as a team captain, McElwain is a three-year starter who has totaled 60 receptions for 937 yards and nine touchdowns during his career.

An outstanding student, McElwain earned his undergraduate degree in business analytics and data science and is currently pursuing a master's degree in business analytics. The Glen Allen, Va., native garnered CAA Commissioner's Academic Honor Roll distinction eight times and was recognized on W&M's Dean's List on three occasions.
 
McElwain is also active in the community and has volunteered with Williamsburg House of Mercy, Be The Match, Night to Shine and Slay Hunger. He has also participated in a reading program with local elementary schools and achieved Eagle Scout distinction.

The NFF will announce 12-16 finalists on Oct. 21, and each of them will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as a member of the 2026 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class presented by Fidelity Investments. The award winner will be announced during the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on Dec. 8 and have his postgraduate scholarship increased to $25,000.