Carl Nassib’s senior season was among the best storylines in all of college football, and sports in general for that matter. From walk-on defensive lineman to superstar pass rusher, and as of today: Hendricks Award winner.

Nassib was awarded the Ted Hendricks Award, given to the nation’s top defensive end. Since its inception in 2002, the award has been given to a number of distinguished collegiate pass rushers who later went on to shine in the NFL ranks. The list includes linebackers Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil, LaMarr Woodley, Brian Orakpo — all of whom have made at least one Pro Bowl during their respective NFL careers — along with defensive end Chris Long and linebacker Jadeveon Clowney. 2014 Hendricks Award winner Nate Orchard — who was selected in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns — led the NCAA in sacks with 18.5 during his senior year.

The point is, Nassib is joining some elite company.

Long before he became Penn State’s first-ever Hendricks Award winner, Nassib began his collegiate career as an undersized walk-on. Five years later, the behemoth defensive end leads the NCAA in both sacks and forced fumbles with 15.5 and six, respectively, and helped anchor one of the premier defensive lines in all of college football.

Extremely honored to win this award and to be able to represent Mr. Hendricks, PSU, and Walk-On U. #themadstork https://t.co/dew2mQBKpH

— Carl Nassib (@CarlNassib) December 9, 2015

Nassib’s always embodied the spirit of “Walk-On U” through his fierce dedication, unmatched work ethic, and tremendous leadership both on the field and in the classroom. Now, after never starting a football game prior to the 2015 season, Nassib has a good chance of hearing his name called during the 2016 NFL Draft.

Nassib proved disbelievers wrong, and made a name for himself with his stunning body of work. With his final collegiate game set for Jan. 2 during the TaxSlayer bowl, expect the 2015 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year to leave his mark and go out with a bang.