Awards
NJFFL Game Balls — Week 1
Every owner's pick for the player who carried them.
By Jimmy the Greek · 9/16/2026

Week 1 delivered an absolute deadlock at the top of the leaderboard, where Kenneth Walker III and Caleb Williams both exploded for a league-pacing 62 points. When your fantasy studs drop sixty-plus right out of the gate, you hand over the hardware immediately and don't overthink it.
Pat Gabriele of the West Hartford Wolverines wasted zero time honoring Kenneth Walker III after the running back racked up a monstrous 62 points. Walker was practically untouchable, setting a blistering pace for Gabriele's squad right out of the tunnel.
Matching that top mark was Chicago Icemen owner Bryan Perez, who gave his ball to Caleb Williams for a matching 62-point masterclass. Perez kept his postgame review cool and direct: "The Iceman led the Icemen exactly how we expected him to."
John Pappa Perez handed the Newark Immigrants' game ball to Josh Allen after the Buffalo gunslinger put up 57 points. Allen did what he does best, bulldozing through defenses and giving Newark an elite foundation to start the year.
The Alaska Lookouts and Mike Gabes directed their honors to wideout Christian Watson, who torched the opposition for 56 points. Gabes needed a dynamic spark, and Watson provided nothing short of fireworks.
Tampa Sea Captains co-owners Mike and Ron Klepacky gave their nod to Derrick Henry after a trademark 52-point bulldozing effort. The veteran running back punished defenders all day, steering the ship smoothly for the Klepacky duo.
Dominic DiYanni of the Louisville Lightning recognized Jalen Coker, who posted 46 points in an electric showing. DiYanni watched his Carolina receiver step into the spotlight and deliver big-time value when called upon.
Joe Christiano of the Philadelphia Phreaks handed his Week 1 prize to Jalen Hurts for a composed 44-point performance. Hurts controlled the game from under center and gave Christiano exactly the high-floor leadership the Phreaks require.
Finally, John Perez of the Montclair Heights Moonwalkers gave his game ball to rookie Ashton Jeanty after a sharp 43-point outing. Jeanty looked fully in orbit, flashing the kind of effortless talent that Perez expects to lean on all season long.
Meanwhile, we have to shine an unflattering spotlight on the managers who left their cupboards bare and handed out absolutely nothing. Shame on Mike Donnelly of the Jersey City Crop Dusters, Joe Borell of the Florida Finatics, Justin Callow of the Boston Alliance, and Jared Luciani of the Maine Machine. Your players actually showed up this week—it is time for you to do the same.