DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Central University freshman placekicker Riley Daniels has been named to the 2026 Fred Mitchell Award Midseason Watch List, the organization announced Wednesday.

Daniels is one of 40 placekickers recognized for their performances during the first half of the college football season. The Fred Mitchell Award honors the nation's top placekicker from the Football Championship Subdivision, Division II, Division III, NAIA and junior college levels.

The Raleigh, North Carolina, native has converted 10 of his 13 field-goal attempts this season, including all three of his attempts from 20-29 yards. Daniels is also 17-for-19 on extra-point attempts and leads the Eagles in scoring with 47 points.

Daniels began his collegiate career by making his first eight field-goal attempts. In his debut against Texas Southern, he connected on kicks from 25, 32 and 37 yards. He followed that performance by converting both attempts against Elizabeth City State and added a 37-yard field goal in NCCU's victory over North Carolina A&T.

The Rolesville High School product recorded a season-long 47-yard field goal against nationally ranked Campbell on Oct. 3, marking the longest made field goal by an Eagle since Kaleb Robison connected from 48 yards against Norfolk State during the 2025 season.

Daniels was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week on Sept. 7 after making field goals from 29 and 24 yards and converting all three of his extra-point attempts in NCCU's 27-6 victory over Elizabeth City State.

The Fred Mitchell Award evaluates placekickers based on field-goal accuracy, distance, performance in critical moments, and contributions to their communities. The selection committee will consider community and civic-service participation alongside on-field accomplishments when evaluating candidates at the conclusion of the regular season.

The recipient of the 2026 Fred Mitchell Award will be announced in December.

NCCU (2-5) has an open date this week before beginning MEAC play on Friday, Oct. 23, at Delaware State. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. at Alumni Stadium, and ESPN2 will air the game live.

For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com