Rinaldi Nominated for Allstate AFCA 2026 Good Works Team – Vanderbilt Commodores

Team including 22 student-athletes will be announced in September
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Allstate and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) named 175 nominees, including Vanderbilt football’s Nick Rinaldi, for the 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team on Monday, recognizing student-athletes and head coaches from every level of college football who are making an impact through community service, academic achievement and leadership.
Rinaldi has made community engagement a consistent priority throughout his time at Vanderbilt, using his platform to support local organizations and strengthen connections across Middle Tennessee. Since 2022, he has partnered with the opening of Clarksville’s newest hospital facility to welcome healthcare workers to the community, recognize frontline medical professionals, and participate in staff appreciation initiatives celebrating their dedication and service. He has also helped elevate the mission of Special Olympics through a podcast initiative that highlights the stories of athletes, coaches, and advocates, providing a platform to celebrate achievements, promote inclusion, and raise awareness for the movement throughout the region. In addition, Rinaldi has participated in Vanderbilt’s annual school supplies drive, helping organize and promote the community-wide effort to collect essential classroom materials for local students and teachers.
Beyond those initiatives, Rinaldi has regularly participated in Vanderbilt’s pregame visits to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, spending time with pediatric patients and their families. The visits have provided encouragement, created meaningful connections, and brought moments of joy to children facing medical challenges. In 2025, he also participated in the Dancing Dores Miracle Network Dance Marathon, helping raise funds for Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital while building relationships with “Miracle Kids” and supporting the hospital’s mission to provide life-changing care for children and their families.
The Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognizes college football student-athletes who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service, academics and athletics. Established in 1992 and presented by Allstate since 2008, the program honors players who use their platforms to strengthen communities and support causes important to them.
The 2026 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team will be announced in September and include 22 student-athletes and one honorary head coach. One student-athlete will also be selected as team captain and receive the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy.
Rinaldi and the Commodores kick off the 2026 campaign on Sept. 5, hosting Austin Peay at 6 p.m. at FirstBank Stadium.

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