Boston College quarterback Grayson James has been named to the 2025 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List. The annual award, now in its 39th year, recognizes the top senior or upperclassman quarterback in college football. The recently released Watch List features 58 quarterbacks, with 13 representing the Atlantic Coast Conference.
A social media post from ACC Football read, “Conference of QBs represent once again (…) 13 ACC Quarterbacks named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Watch List.”
James is preparing for his second year with Boston College after transferring from Florida International University. During the 2024 season, he played in six games, starting five. He completed 106 passes out of 166 attempts for a total of 1,202 yards and threw six touchdowns against two interceptions. On the ground, he made 37 rush attempts for 79 yards and scored three touchdowns.
The Duncanville, Texas native earned the starting quarterback job late last season following the benching of former starter Thomas Castellanos, who has since transferred to Florida State. Under James’ leadership, Boston College qualified for a bowl game for a second consecutive year.
During recent training camp activities ahead of the upcoming season, head coach Bill O’Brien decided that Alabama transfer Dylan Lonergan would start Week One at quarterback. However, O’Brien indicated both players will see playing time throughout the season: “They’re both good. They’re both gonna play (…) Now, we won’t alternate them. One guy will start, but there may be other things that whoever the backup is can do. Both guys have done really well.” This statement was given by O’Brien on Aug. 9.
Other ACC quarterbacks joining James on this year’s Watch List include Cade Klubnik (Clemson), Darian Mensah (Duke), Thomas Castellanos (Florida State), Haynes King (Georgia Tech), Miller Moss (Louisville), Carson Beck (Miami), Eli Holstein (Pitt), Kevin Jennings (SMU), Steve Angeli (Syracuse), Chandler Morris (Virginia), Kyron Drones (Virginia Tech) and Robby Ashford (Wake Forest).
A full list of all quarterbacks named to the Watch List is provided in official releases related to this award.
Boston College continues preparation for their next season as decisions at quarterback remain closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
