Trio of defenders named NWC All-Conference

SALEM, Ore. — The Northwest Conference (NWC) announced all-conference selections for the 2025 Football season. The bearcats found three familiar names on the list. Jonjon Delgado was named All-NWC Second Team Defense. Austin Payne and Javi Rodriguez were named to the third team.

Jonjon Delgado: All-NWC Second Team Defense

During the 2025-26 football season, Jonjon Delgado made significant contributions as a defensive back for Willamette, notably leading the team in several key defensive metrics. Delgado played in all ten games of the season, where he was a standout in forcing turnovers and disrupting opposing offenses. He led the team with five interceptions, which he returned for a total of 57 yards, including a team-high return of 39 yards against Linfield on November 15. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by his leadership in both pass breakups, with a total of five, and forced fumbles, recording one during the season.

Delgado's ability to impact games was evident from the outset, as he recorded two interceptions in the opening game against Pomona-Pitzer on September 6. His defensive acumen was also on display on October 18 against Puget Sound, where he not only intercepted a pass but returned it for a 35-yard touchdown, marking his only touchdown of the season. In the same game, he contributed to the team's kickoff return efforts with three returns for 72 yards, showcasing his versatility.

Throughout the season, Delgado achieved a total of 40 tackles, comprised of 28 solo and 12 assisted tackles, underscoring his reliability in defense. His season-high performance in tackles came on November 1 against George Fox, where he recorded eight total tackles. Delgado's contributions on the field were crucial to the team's defensive efforts, making him a key player for Willamette during the 2025-26 season.

Austin Payne: All-NWC Third Team Defense

During the 2025-26 season, Austin Payne played a pivotal role for the Willamette football team, consistently contributing on the defensive front. Over the course of ten games, Payne accumulated a total of fifty-three tackles, showcasing his reliability and presence on the field. His defensive prowess was further highlighted by six tackles for loss, which resulted in a total of twenty-six yards lost for opponents.

Payne's ability to disrupt opposing offenses was evident in his performance against Lewis & Clark on October 11, 2025, where he recorded a season-high nine tackles, including three solo tackles for loss totaling fourteen yards, alongside two sacks for eleven yards. Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility in the same game by securing an interception, marking a significant all-around defensive contribution.

Throughout the season, Payne led the team in blocked kicks, underscoring his ability to impact special teams play. Furthermore, he topped the team in assisted sacks, with a total of two for the season. His impact was also felt during the game against La Verne University on September 20, 2025, where he forced a fumble and registered eight tackles, including two solo tackles for loss, contributing significantly to Willamette's victory.

Austin Payne's consistent performance and leadership on defense were crucial for the Willamette team, making him a standout player throughout the season.

Javi Rodriguez: All-NWC Third Team Defense

Linebacker Javi Rodriguez made a significant impact for Willamette during the 2025-26 football season. Leading the team in multiple defensive categories, Rodriguez recorded 77 total tackles, including 46 solo and 31 assisted. His ability to disrupt the offense was evident as he registered 12 unassisted tackles for loss and seven assisted tackles for loss, totaling 62 yards lost for opponents.

Rodriguez's defensive prowess extended to his pass-rushing skills, where he secured a team-high seven sacks, accounting for 45 yards lost. He demonstrated his knack for making big plays during the matchup against La Verne University on September 20, 2025, by recovering a fumble and returning it 54 yards for a touchdown. This return was the longest of the season for the team and added a crucial score in Willamette's victory.

In the game against Pomona-Pitzer on September 6, 2025, Rodriguez delivered a standout performance with 11 total tackles, including two sacks for 14 yards lost. Another notable game was against Puget Sound on October 18, 2025, where he registered a season-high 16 tackles, showcasing his relentless effort and contribution on defense.

Rodriguez also blocked a kick in the November 1, 2025, game against George Fox, further highlighting his versatility and all-around defensive capabilities. His presence on the field was a key factor for the team, making him an invaluable asset throughout the season.