University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Heintschel Named to Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List
8/11/2026 12:00:00 PM | Football
Pitt quarterback recognized for leadership and community service
PITTSBURGH—Quarterback Mason Heintschel has been named to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, it was announced Tuesday.
Widely regarded as college football's premier award for community service, the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy recognizes an FBS player who combines exemplary service with leadership and achievement on and off the field.
Heintschel's selection follows the launch of his "Have a Heart" campaign, an initiative benefiting the Heart Institute at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Throughout the 2026 season, the campaign will raise awareness and funds to advance care for children with heart conditions while supporting their families.
The initiative holds special meaning for Heintschel. It honors the memory of his childhood friend, Lukas, whose donated heart helped save another child's life following his death.
"It's everything," Heintschel said of honoring his friend's legacy. "Just to see that he was able to help somebody else out and go through that, it just puts a smile on your face. It's truly a miracle for sure."
Heintschel has also developed a friendship with Sloan, a young patient who received a heart transplant at UPMC Children's. He described seeing her thrive following the procedure as "pure joy."
"To see Sloan get the help that she needed, it almost sends a couple tears to the eye," Heintschel said. "Just to see that she's able to be thriving now."
Heintschel's impact extends to the field, where he emerged as one of the nation's most productive freshman quarterbacks in 2025. He completed 201-of-316 passes for 2,354 yards and 16 touchdowns while adding two rushing scores. The Oregon, Ohio, native helped Pitt compile a 6-3 record in his nine starts and produced four 300-yard passing performances.
His freshman campaign included a 400-yard, three-touchdown effort against NC State, the first 400-yard passing game by a Pitt quarterback since Kenny Pickett in 2021. Heintschel was named a semifinalist for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award and earned two ACC Rookie of the Week honors as well as ACC Quarterback of the Week recognition.
Established in 2005 and named for Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Famer Danny Wuerffel, the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy honors college football players who serve others, celebrates their impact and inspires greater community service.
Eleven players from the watch list will be selected for the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team and become semifinalists for the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy.
