Auburn’s Philip Lutzenkirchen named to John Mackey Award watch list

Auburn’s Philip Lutzenkirchen was named to the preseason John Mackey Award watch list Wednesday. The award is given annually to the nation’s top tight end.

Lutzenkirchen, a junior, caught 13 passes for 137 yards last year. He emerged as a prime red zone target, catching five touchdowns. Three came against Georgia and Alabama.

The Marietta, Ga., native has 18 career catches for 203 yards and seven touchdowns. He is one of 34 tight ends on the watch list. Here are Auburn players who have made preseason watch lists so far this season:

• RB Mike Dyer — Maxwell Award (top overall player)
• TE Philip Lutzenkirchen — Mackey Award (top tight end)