For the second consecutive season, JT Tuimoloau is up for a national award that pays tribute to his Polynesian ancestry.
On Thursday, the Ohio State defensive end was named a finalist for the Polynesian Player of the Year Award, an honor presented to the most outstanding college football player of Polynesian ancestry who shows standout ability and integrity on and off the field. Tuimoloau is one of 10 players nominated for the accolade:
- Jonah Elliss, Utah, DL
- Troy Fautanu, Washington, OL
- Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State, OL
- Laiatu Latu, UCLA, DL
- Tetairoa McMillen, Arizona, WR
- Jaydn Ott, California, RB
- Taulia Tagovailoa, Maryland, QB
- JT Tuimoloau, DL
- Sione Vaki, Utah, DB
Tuimoloau recorded 34 tackles, six tackles for loss, four sacks, two pass breakups and one fumble recovery across 12 appearances for the Buckeyes in 2023.