Arkansas State senior running back Ja’Quez Cross has been named one of 46 candidates for the 2025 Paul Hornung Award, which recognizes the most versatile player in major college football. This is the second consecutive year Cross has been on the watch list, making him only the fourth player in the program’s history to receive this honor.
Cross had an impressive 2024 season, playing in all 13 games and rushing for 638 yards with two touchdowns. He achieved consecutive 100-yard rushing games against Texas State and Southern Miss and recorded 35 receptions for 228 yards, including a touchdown against Southern Miss. He currently has four career 100-yard rushing games.
Beyond his offensive capabilities, Cross is the team’s primary kickoff returner, amassing 1,129 return yards over the past two seasons. In 2024, he collected 475 yards on 24 returns, with a standout 93-yard kickoff return touchdown against Texas State. His career average stands at 24.0 yards per return.
For the 2025 season, Cross has been selected First Team Preseason All-Sun Belt in the all-purpose category and earned Second Team honors as both a running back and return specialist.
The Paul Hornung Award is part of the National College Football Awards Association, which encompasses 25 esteemed college football awards. Arkansas State heads into the 2025 season on a high note, having made consecutive bowl appearances, including a win in the 2024 68 Ventures Bowl against Bowling Green. The Red Wolves have consistently increased their regular season win total since 2022, making them one of only four FBS programs to do so.
Arkansas State will kick off the 2025 season at home against Southeast Missouri on Saturday, August 30, with a 6:00 p.m. start time.
