Georgia Tech running back Justice Haynes named to Maxwell Award watchlist

Georgia Tech running back Justice Haynes was among 81 players named to the Maxwell Award’s preseason watchlist, the school announced Monday.

Haynes, a native of Alpharetta who attended Buford High School, transferred to Tech in January after stops at Alabama and Michigan.

Haynes had 857 yards and 10 touchdowns in seven games for the Wolverines in 2025 before a right foot injury ended his season. He led the Big Ten in yards per carry at 7.1 and rushing yards per game with 122.4.

ExploreMedia pick Georgia Tech to finish fifth in ACC

Haynes is expected to be a key contributor for the Yellow Jackets. He was a fourth-team preseason All-American by Athlon Sports and first-team preseason All-ACC selection. He will try to replace the production of Jamal Haynes, who rushed for 2,534 yards (eighth-most in program history) across a five-year career.

The Jackets are also expected to start a transfer addition, Alberto Mendoza from Indiana, at quarterback. Tech began fall camp Monday and will open its season Sept. 3 against Colorado at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

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