Pro Wells was unsure whether he would make the cut as a preseason candidate for the John Mackey Award, which honors the nation’s top tight end in Division I-A football each year.
After all, last year was his first full season at Texas Christian. He made great strides, starting five of the final six games.
Still, Wells did not if that was enough.
“Everyone has been sleeping on me heavy,” he said.
Not anymore.
The former Dixie Hollins standout was among those on the watch list. He is one of two locals who made it. The other is Georgia’s Tre McKitty, who played at Wesley Chapel and Tampa Catholic before finishing his high school career at IMG Academy.
Wells (featured photo above courtesy of TCU Athletics Communications) started out at St. Petersburg before transferring to Dixie Hollins. He also was a star in basketball and used those skills on the court to help him transform into a playmaking tight end.
Before arriving at Texas Christian, Wells spent time at Milford Academy and Northwest Mississippi Community College.
After redshirting in 2018, Wells had his breakthrough with the Horned Frogs this past season. He tied for the team lead in touchdown receptions with five and was named second-team All-Big 12.
Despite those accolades, Wells had to be convinced he made the watch list, even asking to see the list to make sure it was true.
Now, everyone knows he is one of the nation’s best.
“It was good to know I made the list at all,” Wells said. “I’m just grateful to be in this position. I have a lot more work to do, but it’s a great start.”
