Jurkovec Named to Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List

PITTSBURGH—Pitt quarterback Phil Jurkovec has been named a preseason candidate for the prestigious Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award presented annually to the top senior or upperclassman quarterback set to graduate with their class.

The award's watch list was unveiled today by the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Educational Foundation, Inc., and presenting sponsor A. O. Smith Corporation.

Pitt owns very recent history with this honor. Kenny Pickett was the 2021 recipient of the Unitas Golden Arm Award in 2021 after throwing for 4,319 yards and 42 touchdowns in leading the Panthers to 11 victories and the ACC title.

This is the second national award to recognize Jurkovec as a preseason candidate. He previously was named to the watch list for the Maxwell Award presented to the national player of the year.

One of the most prolific passers in Western Pennsylvania high school history, Jurkovec enrolled at Pitt in January as a mid-year graduate transfer from Boston College. A Pittsburgh native, he was a prep star at nearby Pine-Richland High School.

In three seasons at Boston College (2020-22), Jurkovec threw for 5,184 yards on 59% passing (404 of 679) with 35 touchdowns and 17 interceptions. He also rushed for nine TDs.

At Pine-Richland, he was named a U.S. Army All-American after throwing for 8,202 yards and 71 touchdowns during his career. As a senior, he passed for 3,969 yards and 39 touchdowns (against just six interceptions) in leading the Rams to a 16-0 record and the WPIAL and PIAA Class 6A championships.

Entering his final season of collegiate eligibility, Jurkovec and the Panthers open the 2023 season on September 2 against Wofford at Acrisure Stadium. For Pitt football ticket information, log on to PittsburghPanthers.com or call (800) 643-PITT.

Pitt Players on Preseason Award Watch Lists:

Bednarik Award (National Defensive Player): Cornerback M.J. Devonshire

Doak Walker Award (Running Back): Running Back Rodney Hammond Jr.

John Mackey Award (Tight End): Tight End Gavin Bartholomew

Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (Upperclassman Quarterback): Quarterback Phil Jurkovec

Lou Groza Award (Place-Kicker): Place-kicker Ben Sauls

Maxwell Award (National Player of the Year): Quarterback Phil Jurkovec

Outland Trophy (Interior Lineman): Offensive Tackle Matt Goncalves

Paul Hornung Award (Most Versatile): Cornerback/Punt Returner M.J. Devonshire

Rimington Trophy (Center): Center Jake Kradel

Wuerffel Trophy (Community Service): Tight End Gavin Bartholomew and Defensive Tackle David Green