De’Zhaun Stribling, Justin Wright Named to Comeback Player Award Watch List

#WatchListSZN can be a lot, but this particular list packs a sentimental punch. Who doesn’t love a comeback story?

Oklahoma State wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling and linebacker Justin Wright are among 90 college football players named to the Comeback Player of the Year watch list, according to a press release from the school.

The award is given annually to a player that exhibits perseverance in overcoming injury, illness or other circumstances. And both Stribling and Wright fit the bill, each coming back from a season-ending injury in 2023.

Stribling came on strong to start last season. While the rest of the offense was trying to figure out who to take snaps and handoffs, the former Washington State transfer led the way with 14 catches for 198 yards and a touchdown in the first four games before a wrist injury sidelined him. Now he’s back and healthy and figures to be a major target on the outside for Alan Bowman in 2024.

Wright came in after a distinguished career at Tulsa ready to fill a big void in the middle of OSU’s defense, but his OSU career was derailed before he could even get going. Wright played a handful of snaps in OSU’s Week 1 win over Central Arkansas and then recorded two tackles against Iowa State, but those were the only two games he appeared in. Now he’s back and ready to help solidify a defense with some things to prove in the second year under Bryan Nardo.

The award is determined by the College Sports Communicators and three winners will be announced after the season and will be honored at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.