Manny Covey, a redshirt junior at the University of Memphis, has been named to the 2026 Doak Walker Award watch list, which honors the nation’s top running back. Covey transferred from Cincinnati, where he recorded 436 all-purpose yards last season and was recognized as a first-team punt returner. He joins three other American Conference honorees on the watch list. The Doak Walker Award committee will narrow the candidates to ten semifinalists in November, with the award presented on December 10, 2026.

By the Numbers
  • Covey recorded 436 all-purpose yards in the previous season.
  • He is one of four players from the American Conference on the Doak Walker watch list.
State of Play
  • Memphis has placed a running back on the watch list for nine of the last ten seasons.
  • The Tigers will compete against eight FBS opponents who earned bowl berths in 2025.
What's Next

The next key dates include the announcement of ten semifinalists in November and the final award recipient in December. Covey aims to leverage his recent accolades to boost his performance during the season.

Bottom Line

With Covey’s selection to the Doak Walker watch list, Memphis continues to showcase its strong legacy of talented running backs, poised for a competitive season ahead.