COLLEGE PARK, MD. – University of Maryland defensive lineman Zahir Mathis has been named one of 14 semifinalists for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award, the Maxwell Football Club announced today.

The award has been presented to the most outstanding freshman player in college football since 2018. Past winners include Trevor Lawrence, Kenneth Gainwell, Will Anderson Jr., Brock Bowers, Drake Maye, Caleb Downs and Colin Simmons.

Mathis has shined for the Terps during his true freshman season, compiling 23 tackles, six tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and blocking a kick. Despite missing nearly all of the past two games with an injury, Mathis still ranks 12^th in the Big Ten in total sacks.

Finalists for the 7th annual Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year award will be announced on December 3, 2025, and the winner of the award will be announced on December 30, 2025. The formal presentation of this award will be made at the Maxwell Football Club Awards on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

2025 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award Semifinalists
Dijon Lee Jr., Alabama, Cornerback
Bear Bachmeier, BYU, Quarterback
Micah Alejado, Hawaii, Quarterback
Zahir Mathis, Maryland, Edge
Malachi Toney, Miami, Wide Receiver
CJ Carr, Notre Dame, Quarterback
Drew Mestemaker, North Texas, Quarterback
Julian Sayin, Ohio State, Quarterback
Wendell Gregory, Oklahoma State, Edge
Brandon Finney, Oregon, Cornerback
Mason Heintschel, Pitt, Quarterback
Demetres Samuel Jr., Syracuse, Defensive Back
Ty Redmond, Tennessee, Cornerback
Braylon Staley, Tennessee, Wide Receiver