Big news out of Kansas—tight end Carter Moses just landed a spot on the 2026 John Mackey Award Preseason Watch List. That’s a pretty big deal, considering the award goes to the top college tight end each year in honor of Hall of Famer John Mackey.
Moses recently transferred to Kansas after four years at Albany. He’s expected to shake things up this season and could be a real difference-maker for the Jayhawks.
The John Mackey Award started back in 2000. It’s one of those college football honors that really stands out, highlighting guys who show not just talent, but also leadership and some serious upside.
Who is Carter Moses?
Carter Moses grew up in Wilmington, N.C. He’s got plenty of experience to bring to Kansas, having played 37 games at Albany.
During his time there, he racked up 47 catches for 511 yards and four touchdowns. His 2026 season was especially impressive—27 catches, 338 yards, and three touchdowns. Not bad at all.
Career Highlights at Albany
- 37 career games played
- 47 career receptions for 511 yards
- Four touchdowns scored
- Career-high 27 receptions in 2026
- 338 receiving yards in a single season
- Three touchdowns in 2026
The John Mackey Award: A Prestigious Honor
It’s not just about stats with the John Mackey Award. The whole thing is rooted in Mackey’s legacy—he was known for his game, sure, but also for his leadership and character.
Since its creation by the Nassau County Sports Commission in 2000, the award’s been a benchmark for the best tight ends in college football.
Criteria for Selection
- Exceptional talent on the field
- Leadership qualities both on and off the field
- Strong character and sportsmanship
- Potential for future success in football
The committee keeps an eye on players all season. They’re not afraid to add new names if someone starts turning heads mid-year.
Impact on Kansas Jayhawks
Having Moses on the Mackey Watch List definitely puts the Kansas Jayhawks in the spotlight. His experience and history of making plays could really help the team.
He’s also expected to step up as a leader, which Kansas needs if they want to do something special this year.
What This Means for the Team
- Enhanced team performance due to his skills and experience
- Increased visibility and recognition for the program
- Inspiration for younger players to strive for excellence
- Potential for attracting new talent to the team
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season
With the 2026 season coming up, there’s a lot riding on how Moses fits in at Kansas. Will his presence be the spark the Jayhawks need? Guess we’ll find out soon enough.
Key Factors for Success
There are a few things that could really make or break Kansas this season:
- Utilizing Moses’ strengths in offensive strategies
- Maintaining team cohesion and strong communication
- Adapting to challenges and overcoming adversity
- Consistent performance from all team members
Carter Moses is set to lead the Jayhawks, and honestly, there’s a real shot for Kansas to shake things up in college football this year.
If you’re curious about Moses’ story or want to check out his latest recognition, here’s the link: Kansas Athletics.
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