For the 2nd Time, Gipson Finalist for Walter Payton Award

11/22/2022 1:00:00 PM | Football

By: Dennis Driscoll, SFA Associate Athletic Director of Strategic Communications

CHICAGO, Ill. – Stephen F. Austin All-American wide receiver Xavier Gipson was named a finalist for the 2022 Walter Payton Award, which is awarded to the top offensive football student-athlete in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

Gipson, a Dallas, Texas product, had a standout 2022 campaign and led the Western Athletic Conference in several statistical categories, including 1163 receiving yards, 105.7 receiving yards per game, and 5.9 receptions per game. Gipson added seven receiving touchdowns and 135.09 all-purpose yards per game. Gipson also ranked third nationally in receiving yards.

The Payton Award, which was first presented in 1987 and in its 36th season, is named for legendary running back Walter Payton, who starred at Jackson State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Affectionately known as the Heisman of the FCS, its past recipients include Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp and Trey Lance.