THIBODAUX, La. - Nicholls State University running back Julien Gums has been named to the Stats Perform FCS Walter Payton Watch List, as the organization announced Wednesday it's 35-player preseason list. 

The Payton Award is awarded to the FCS' offensive player of the year. Last season, Nicholls standout wide receiver Dai'Jean Dixon was a finalist for the honor.

A native of New Orleans, Gums enters his final campaign with over 2,500 career rushing yards and 32 touchdowns. A two-time All-Southland selection, Gums was on track for another stellar season in the fall before it was cut short with an injury. He rushed for 139 yards on 19 carries in the win over North Alabama and then totaled 105 on just six carries in the opening quarter against HBU. The performances were his 10th and 11th 100-yard games for his career, setting a new program record.

Gums was an All-Southland Second Team selection in the spring. His breakout season was in 2019 where he set the single-season rushing records with 1,232 yards and 16 touchdowns. 

More players can join the watch list during the regular season, and afterwards a national media panel will select the winner. First awarded in 1987, the Payton has watched past recipients such as Steve McNair, Tony Romo, Brian Westbrook, Jimmy Garoppolo, Cooper Kupp and Trey Lance move on to the NFL. 

UP NEXT
The Colonels report to fall camp on Thursday, Aug. 4 with their first practice set for Friday. 

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