Ole Miss linebacker Suntarine Perkins wins 2026 Chucky Mullins Courage Award

Ole Miss linebacker Suntarine Perkins has been named the winner of the 2026 Chucky Mullins Courage Award, the university announced Saturday. Perkins, a senior, was selected by head coach Pete Golding, who presented the award.

The award, sponsored by the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, honors the late Chucky Mullins, whose football career at Ole Miss ended after he was paralyzed during the 1989 homecoming game against Vanderbilt. Mullins passed away in 1991. The award recognizes Ole Miss upperclassman defensive players who display courage, leadership, perseverance, and determination, embodying Mullins’ spirit.

Perkins, preparing for his fourth year with the Rebels, finished second on the team in total tackles last season with 81. He also recorded 12.5 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, six pass breakups, and an interception. He was on the preseason watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and was named to the preseason All-SEC second team by media members.

Previous recipients of the Mullins Courage Award include notable players such as Patrick Willis, Jamarca Sanford, and C.J. Moore. Ole Miss will open its 2026 season on Sept. 6 against Louisville at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee.

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