Lansing Sun

Michigan State's graduate kicker Jonathan Kim has been nominated for the 2024 Burlsworth Trophy, an award given to the most outstanding football player in America who began as a walk-on. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the award, named after Brandon Burlsworth, a former University of Arkansas walk-on and All-American offensive lineman.

The selection process for the Burlsworth Trophy requires nominees to have started their collegiate football careers without any financial aid from their university's athletic department. "The walk-on athlete is an integral part of college football," stated Marty Burlsworth, President and CEO of the Burlsworth Trophy. He emphasized that all nominees have seized their opportunities through hard work and determination.

Brandon Burlsworth himself was a notable example of success as a walk-on, eventually becoming an All-American and being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts before his untimely death in a car accident. His legacy continues through the Burlsworth Foundation, which supports children with limited opportunities.

Jonathan Kim started his career at North Carolina as a walk-on in 2019 and quickly made his mark by leading the FBS with 76 touchbacks on 89 kickoffs in 2020. Awarded a scholarship in 2021, he continued with North Carolina before transferring to Michigan State in 2023. In his first year at MSU, Kim earned honorable mention All-Big Ten accolades by leading his team with 56 points and setting records such as a Kinnick Stadium record field goal.

This season, Kim leads the Big Ten with 17 field goals made out of 19 attempts. His performance includes breaking school records during Michigan State's Homecoming win over Iowa. Notably, he set a new MSU record with six field goals in one game, tying him for most field goals made in modern-day Big Ten history alongside Jake Moody's record from Michigan.

Kim has also been recognized as Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week and was named one of three Lou Groza Award Stars of the Week for his achievements.

The winner of this year's Burlsworth Trophy will be announced on December 9 at Crystal Bridges Museum in Bentonville, Arkansas. The last Spartan to win this award was Kenny Willekes in 2019.