Ole Miss linebacker Suntarine Perkins wins 2026 Chucky Mullins Courage Award

Ole Miss linebacker Suntarine Perkins has been named the recipient of the 2026 Chucky Mullins Courage Award, the university announced Saturday. Head coach Pete Golding revealed the honor, which recognizes courage and perseverance beyond athletic performance.

Perkins is the 36th recipient in the award’s 37-year history. He will receive the award from former teammate Tyler Banks, who previously held the honor. The award is named after Chucky Mullins, a former Ole Miss player paralyzed during a 1989 game against Vanderbilt. Mullins passed away in 1991 after returning to his studies at Ole Miss.

As the award’s ambassador, Perkins has the option to wear a No. 38 jersey, Mullins’ number, or keep his current No. 4 jersey and wear a No. 38 patch. Perkins, a native of Raleigh, has been a key member of the Ole Miss defense since his freshman year. He chose to return for his senior season instead of entering the NFL Draft or transferring to another school.

In 2025, Perkins finished second on the team with 81 tackles, including 12.5 for loss, along with 4.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, two recoveries, six pass breakups, and an interception. His contributions helped Ole Miss reach the College Football Playoff for the first time and advance to the semifinals.

Perkins told SuperTalk Mississippi News Thursday that he feels honored to compete at Ole Miss. “Home is home. It’s amazing how far Ole Miss has come. And I feel like it’s going to continue to get better,” he said.

The Rebels will open their 2026-27 season against Louisville in Nashville’s Nissan Stadium on Sept. 6.

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