Which college football award honors the most outstanding player in the United States?

The Heisman Trophy honors the most outstanding college football player in the United States.

The award was first presented in 1935 by New York City’s Downtown Athletic Club and was named for John Heisman, a prominent college football player, coach, and administrator. The inaugural winner was Jay Berwanger of the University of Chicago, who received the award before it became universally known as the Heisman Trophy.

Today, the award recognizes the player whose season best combines athletic ability, performance, perseverance, diligence, and sportsmanship. Although quarterbacks and running backs have historically won most often, players at other positions can prevail. Charles Woodson, a defensive back, won in 1997, and wide receiver DeVonta Smith won in 2020.

The Heisman is decided through a nationwide voting process involving sports journalists, former Heisman winners, and other designated voters. It is often called the top individual honor in college football, but it is not the same as a team championship or a professional award.