CLEVELAND – Western Michigan running back Jalen Buckley has been named the 2023 Mid-American Conference Freshman of the Year.

Buckley was one of just two freshmen in the nation to reach 1,000 yards rushing, with the Aurora, Ill., native finishing with 1,003. Buckley averaged 5.3 yards per carry and also finished with 10 touchdowns on the ground. He is the 10th Bronco to win the MAC Freshman of the Year award, tops in the conference.

Eight of his 10 touchdowns came in MAC play, while rushing for 692 yards in the eight games. He finished the season with four 100-yard rushing games, including a career-high 196 against Toledo. Three of the four came in MAC play.

Buckley was also announced as a Third Team All-MAC selection.