A Second Consecutive Honor
Liberty University center Aaron Fenimore has been named to the 2026 Rimington Trophy watch list, marking the second consecutive year the standout lineman has received the prestigious preseason recognition. The Rimington Trophy, presented annually by the Boomer Esiason Foundation, identifies the nation’s premier center in NCAA Division I college football.
This year’s selection process involved a collaborative effort between the Rimington Trophy committee and Pro Football Focus (PFF). By utilizing PFF’s granular play-by-play grading system, the committee narrowed the field to 40 players nationwide. The final list incorporates both school-submitted nominations and objective performance data, ensuring a high standard of selection for the interior offensive line position.
Proven Performance on the Line
Fenimore’s inclusion on the watch list is backed by a consistent track record as a starter for the Flames. Entering the 2026 season, the Senoia, Georgia native has started 24 consecutive games at center. His reliability is reflected in his snap counts: he has played 97.3 percent of Liberty’s offensive snaps over the 2024 and 2025 seasons, totaling 1,661 of 1,707 possible plays.
According to PFF data, Fenimore served as Liberty’s highest-graded starting offensive lineman in 2025 with a 73.5 rating, following a strong 73.7 rating the previous year. His blocking efficiency was a cornerstone of the Flames’ ground game, which ranked third in Conference USA in 2025, averaging 194.0 rushing yards per game and producing 25 rushing touchdowns. This blocking support was instrumental for running back Evan Dickens, who concluded the 2025 season with 1,339 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns.
Broader Recognition
Beyond the Rimington Trophy, Fenimore has accumulated significant preseason attention. He has been named to the 2027 Shriners Children’s 1000 Watch List and earned first-team and second-team selections on the Athlon Sports and Phil Steele CUSA Preseason All-Conference teams, respectively. As one of only two Conference USA players on the 40-man Rimington list—joining Delaware’s Steven Dembowski—Fenimore remains a focal point for the Flames’ offensive strategy as they prepare for the 2026 campaign at Williams Stadium.