Gunn Jr. Named To Wuerffel Trophy Watch List

( Photo Credit: 247 Sports)

East Carolina senior running back Marlon Gunn Jr. has been named to the 2025 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy Watch List, putting the veteran back in the national spotlight as one of 116 nominees across the FBS. The award honors players who go above and beyond—not just on the field, but in the classroom and in the community as well.

Gunn has quietly put together one of the most well-rounded resumes on the team since arriving in Greenville back in 2021. On the field, he's seen action in 34 games, rushing for 633 yards on 152 carries and scoring three touchdowns—all of which came last season. He's also caught 21 passes for 145 yards, giving him over 900 total yards in his career. He’s been part of two bowl-winning teams and has earned multiple honors for his academic efforts, including being a two-time ECU Director of Athletics Honor Roll recipient.

But it's what Gunn has done off the field that helped earn him this latest recognition. He’s logged over 100 community service hours with a wide range of causes and projects.

Whether it’s volunteering with kids at Ignite Church every other week, handing out meals for the Boneyard Turkey Drive, or packing supplies at the Military Bowl’s “Pack For Troops” event, Gunn’s made his presence felt. He’s also worked with Beast Philanthropy to help raise funds for global causes, mentored local children at John Cotton Taylor Elementary’s Field Day, and helped with Hurricane Helene relief efforts in western North Carolina.

Earlier this summer, Gunn was also nominated for the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, which honors student-athletes for their leadership and service away from football. Last year, ECU defensive lineman Elijah Morris was a semifinalist for both the Wuerffel and Good Works honors.

Now, it’s Gunn’s turn in the spotlight—and Pirate Nation has plenty to be proud of.

- ECU Media Relations contributed to this report