LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) - UNLV linebacker Tau Lotulelei has been named to the 2016 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Watch List, which was announced Wednesday.

The senior, who was also on the same list in 2015, joins five other players from Mountain West schools and 38 overall this fall.

Lotulelei, native of Kihei, Hawai'i, was named 2016 preseason First Team All-Mountain West by Phil Steele's, Sporting News and ESPN and second team by Lindy's.

Last year he started nine games for the Rebels and still managed honorable mention All-MW despite missing significant time with injury. He ranked 15th in the league with 7.0 tackles per game and led the team with 11.5 tackles-for-loss and three quarterback sacks. He enters his final collegiate season with 201 career tackles, 26 TFL and six sacks.

The award is presented annually to the most outstanding Polynesian college football player that epitomizes great ability and integrity. Former University of Oregon, and current Tennessee Titans Quarterback, Marcus Mariota was selected as the inaugural recipient of the Award in 2014 and former University of Notre Dame, and current Baltimore Ravens Offensive Lineman, Ronnie Stanley received last year's honor.

The winner of the 2016 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award will be announced on Dec. 7, 2016. Five finalists will be unveiled November 17. The formal presentation of the award will be held at the Celebration Dinner during the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Weekend on Jan. 20, 2017.

The Watch List candidates have been selected based on past performance and future potential. Additions to the list may be made as the season progresses. The finalists and the winner will be chosen by the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee, which includes Coaches Dick Tomey (Chairman), LaVell Edwards, Ron McBride and Dick Vermeil, past NFLPA President and Inaugural Inductee Kevin Mawae, ESPN Sportscaster Neil Everett, NFL player personnel legend Gil Brandt and Honolulu Sportscaster Robert Kekaula.

The Rebels open camp on August 5 and kick off the season Thursday, September 1 when they host Jackson State at 7 p.m. Season tickets to UNLV's six-game home slate are available now by calling (702) 739-FANS or visiting unlvtickets.com.