Oklahoma’s Febechi Nwaiwu Named East-West Shrine Bowl Pat Tillman Award Recipient

Oklahoma’s Febechi Nwaiwu Named East-West Shrine Bowl Pat Tillman Award Recipient

FRISCO, Texas (January 27, 2026) — Oklahoma offensive lineman Febechi Nwaiwu has been named the recipient of the prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl Pat Tillman Award. Each year, the East-West Shrine Bowl presents the award to recognize the player who best exemplifies intelligence, sportsmanship, and service.

Nwaiwu has earned admiration from teammates and coaches throughout his week at the 101st East-West Shrine Bowl. His receipt of the Pat Tillman Award underscores the significance of his contributions beyond statistics and on-field performance.

“This award reflects character, perseverance, and integrity,” said Lunda Wells, Dallas Cowboys tight ends coach and head coach of the West team. “Febechi embodies everything this honor stands for and its connection to an incredible philanthropic cause such as Shriners Children’s. He approaches the game the right way, leads by example, and earns respect through his work ethic and humility. He is truly deserving of this recognition.”

Pat Tillman’s legacy represents the highest standards of character, selflessness, and service. After playing in the 1998 East–West Shrine Bowl, Tillman went on to a successful NFL career before famously leaving professional football to serve in the U.S. Army following the September 11 attacks. His decision to put service above personal success, and the sacrifice he ultimately made, have made him an enduring symbol of leadership and integrity. The East–West Shrine Bowl reflects those same values by honoring players who demonstrate excellence not only on the field, but also in character, resilience, and commitment.

About East-West Shrine Bowl

The East-West Shrine Bowl is the nation’s oldest college all-star football game. Since 1925, the game has benefited Shriners Children’s. More than 300 alumni are on active NFL rosters each year. To date, East-West Shrine Bowl alumni represent 78 members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and more than 200 members of the College Football Hall of Fame. To learn more, please visit shrinebowl.com.

About Shriners Children’s

Shriners Children’s improves the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, conducting innovative research, and offering outstanding education programs for medical professionals. Children with orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, and cleft lip and palate are eligible for care, regardless of the families’ ability to pay, and receive all care and services in a compassionate, family-centered environment. For more information, please visit shrinerschildrens.org.

MEDIA CONTACTS

Luke Adams | Tony Fay PR | luke@tonyfaypr.com | 469-503-5883‬

Reeves Eddins | Tony Fay PR | reeves@tonyfaypr.com | 901-647-9697

RECENT NEWS