“Massive Boost” As Key Payton Award-Winning Quarterback Returns For The Jackrabbits
South Dakota State coach Jimmy Rogers and his players are thrilled the Walter Payton Award-winning quarterback decided to return for another year in Brookings
BROOKINGS — “One more year!” “One more year!”
These chants echoed from the field at Toyota Stadium back in January as South Dakota State fans celebrated their quarterback Mark Gronowski, who led the team to its second straight FCS championship.
The Naperville, Ill., native still had two years of eligibility left. After guiding SDSU to three national championship games as their starter and winning the Walter Payton Award for the FCS player of the year in 2023, Gronowski was likely to attract interest from major conference programs seeking a quarterback upgrade. This was especially true after SDSU’s quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator, Zach Lujan, moved to Northwestern in Chicago.
While Gronowski remained tight-lipped about his future plans and fully engaged in spring practice as if he would return as the team’s quarterback in 2024, there was ongoing concern that a power conference team might offer him a lucrative NIL deal that he couldn’t refuse.
Ultimately, Gronowski chose to stay, announcing on April 30 via social media with a screenshot of Michael Jordan’s famous return announcement from 1995.
SDSU quarterback Mark Gronowski at practice on Wednesday
Although Gronowski still has one more year of eligibility after this season, he has announced that this will be his final year as a Jackrabbit, partly out of respect for backup Chase Mason, who has been waiting patiently for his chance.
Despite just one year left, the Jackrabbit players and coaches are ecstatic to have their leader back. Here’s what a few of them shared during Wednesday’s Media Day:
Graham Spalding, senior linebacker:
“We were really excited, but I wasn’t nervous, to be honest. We all know what kind of person Mark is and how committed he’s been to this program from the start. What stands out about Mark is his relatability; he’s genuinely just a normal guy, which makes him a great teammate.”
Kevin Brenner, senior tight end:
“It’s awesome to have him back. Mark doesn’t act like he’s a star quarterback; he’s just a friendly, approachable guy. I’ve built a good friendship with him. I don’t see him as just the Walter Payton Award winner; he’s my friend. There was a lot of speculation after the season, but it never felt like he was leaving. When he was here in the spring, he was fully engaged. The whole team felt confident he’d stay, and his return boosts the energy for everyone.”
Aaron Kusler, senior linebacker:
“I always felt he would stay, but hearing the news was really exciting. Having him in the locker room means a lot to us. We know what he can do on the field, but it’s what he brings off the field that matters too—he’s fantastic in the community and great with his teammates. He takes the time to check in with the freshmen and is really approachable, which is part of what makes him special. That builds trust out there during games.”
Tucker Large, junior safety:
“You see him leading the offense and making plays, but his real strengths shine off the field. He does an excellent job connecting younger players with the veterans. We’re thrilled to have him back; he’s going to guide our team to success this year.”
Jimmy Rogers, head coach:
“I wouldn’t say I was nervous because I trust Chase Mason, but Mark is a truly unique individual. Losing him would have meant losing a key part of our culture. I definitely wanted him back. The defensive players wanted him starting since he became a freshman, and they were very vocal about it. When someone like him joins your program, he can alter its core because everyone believes in him. You can coach all you want, but when the lights are on, there’s a level of anxiety and emotion tied to both success and failure. Mark has experienced all of that, and that’s invaluable.”