Swain Named a Finalist for the Jet Award

University of South Carolina punt returner Vicari Swain is one of five finalists named for the Jet Award, it was announced today. The Jet Award honors the nation’s top return specialist in college football.

Swain, a 6-1, 190-pound redshirt sophomore from Carrollton, Ga., ranks sixth in the country in punt return average at 16.8-yards per return. He is one of only two players in the nation to return three punt returns for touchdowns this season.

Celebrating its 15th year, the Jet Award continues to recognize the electrifying talents of players who excel on punt and kickoff returns.

Named in honor of Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Famer Johnny “The Jet” Rodgers, the award ceremony will take place at the Jet Gala on April 2, 2026, at Steelhouse Omaha.

The five finalists represent the best of the best from across the country, showcasing exceptional ability and game-changing talent in the return game. The 2025 winner will be selected by a distinguished panel of voters, including media members from the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), former Jet Award winners, and the award’s co-founders Johnny Rodgers and William Reed.