LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) – UNLV place-kicker Daniel Gutierrez was announced as one of 88 player nominated for the 2021 Burlsworth Trophy.
 
Now in its 12th year, the Burlsworth Trophy is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth, former University of Arkansas walk-on player who became an All-American offensive lineman for the Razorbacks. The award is given each year to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on.
 
A two-year returning starter from Los Angeles who has earned three letters after walking onto the squad out of Granada Hills Charter High School in California, Gutierrez was surprised with a full scholarship during a scrimmage at Allegiant Stadium on August 11. He responded by turning in a career night in the opener vs. Eastern Washington, nailing all four of his field-goal attempts, including a then-personal-best 51-yarder and earning a spot as a Lou Groza Star of the Week. After hitting one attempt in the next five games and then two more vs. San Jose State (including a career-long 53-yarder), Gutierrez currently stands 12th in the nation with a percentage of 91.7. The most accurate kicker in program history, his career field goal numbers of 32-of-39 rank him first with a percentage of 82.1.
 
"What a privilege it is to recognize these young men each year, those that chose to take on the challenge of beginning their college career as a walk-on," said Marty Burlsworth, President and CEO of the Burlsworth Trophy and older brother of Brandon. "We are excited to celebrate the achievements of these 88 players nominated for the 2021 Burlsworth Trophy. These extraordinary young men have put in the work and have earned this honor."
 
After walking on at Arkansas in 1994, Brandon Burlsworth became a three-year starter and was eventually selected as the 63rd overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL draft, but was tragically killed in a car accident 11 days later. The Burlsworth Foundation was created in his memory and supports the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those children who have limited opportunities. His life is subject of the 2016 motion picture "Greater."
 
The Burlsworth Trophy award ceremony to honor the three finalists and to announce the 2021 winner will on December 6 in Bentonville, Arkansas.