Fresno State Athletics
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Photo by: JACQUELUNE CARRILLO
@JCMEEDJA
Xepera on watch list for Wuerffel Trophy
8/11/2026 10:30:00 AM | Football
ATLANTA - Fresno State football senior defensive lineman Merhauti Xepera was added to the 2026 Allstate Wuerffel Trophy watch list, announced by The Wuerffel Foundation on Tuesday.
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Xepera is one of 113 student-athletes up for the prestigious award. The Wuerffel Trophy honors Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) players who lead through community service while excelling in the classroom and on the field.
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Xepera enters his fifth season with the Bulldogs in 2026. He is a native of Maricopa, Arizona and is coming off of his best season on the field of his career. Athletically, he appeared in all 13 games last season, and started in five. He was a key part to a defensive line that anchored a defense that ranked 10th in the FBS in total defense.
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Xepera has turned to see the Central Valley as home. The veteran Bulldog is involved in the community on various levels including the Boys and Girls Club, being active in youth ministry efforts, coaching youth football, and participating in elementary school visits.
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Xepera found his sense of community within the church, inspired by former Bulldog and Fresno State team chaplain Cam Lamanuzzi. The way his church supported the community gave him a sense of belonging and a family away from football.
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Xepera has appeared in 35 career games for Fresno State, including six starts. He is set to lead a defensive line that enters the 2026 season with young depth behind the veteran talent. Off the field, Xepera was a first-generation graduate last spring, earning his degree in business management. He is a three-time Academic All-Mountain West selection.
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Xepera is one of 113 student-athletes up for the prestigious award. The Wuerffel Trophy honors Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) players who lead through community service while excelling in the classroom and on the field.
Â
Xepera enters his fifth season with the Bulldogs in 2026. He is a native of Maricopa, Arizona and is coming off of his best season on the field of his career. Athletically, he appeared in all 13 games last season, and started in five. He was a key part to a defensive line that anchored a defense that ranked 10th in the FBS in total defense.
Â
Xepera has turned to see the Central Valley as home. The veteran Bulldog is involved in the community on various levels including the Boys and Girls Club, being active in youth ministry efforts, coaching youth football, and participating in elementary school visits.
Â
Xepera found his sense of community within the church, inspired by former Bulldog and Fresno State team chaplain Cam Lamanuzzi. The way his church supported the community gave him a sense of belonging and a family away from football.
Â
Xepera has appeared in 35 career games for Fresno State, including six starts. He is set to lead a defensive line that enters the 2026 season with young depth behind the veteran talent. Off the field, Xepera was a first-generation graduate last spring, earning his degree in business management. He is a three-time Academic All-Mountain West selection.
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