Georgia State senior safety Keon Carter was awarded a scholarship in a surprise presentation at halftime of Friday's Blue-White Spring Game at Center Parc Stadium.
 
Carter, who attended Norcross High School, joined the program as a walk-on in 2019. He has lettered the last two years, including six starts in the secondary.
 
In 2020, Carter played in all 10 games with three starts and made 24 tackles.
 
"Keon put himself on scholarship," head coach Shawn Elliott said. "I'm the one who signs the check, but those guys who earn scholarships – they're not given, they're earned. Every single one of them.
 
"He is a tremendous asset to our program. He really plays well when he's in there, and he's a strong special teams contributor. It's awesome to see, and it's special for our football program to be able to do this."
 
Carter was mobbed by teammates and joined on the field by his parents, Rhonda and David Carter.


 
Carter's scholarship was the highlight of the spring awards presentation.
 
Also honored:
 
R-Fr. ILB Justin Abraham – Outstanding Defensive Newcomer
R-Fr. OL Mason Cook – Outstanding Offensive Newcomer
R-Sr. WR Terrance Dixon – Outstanding Offensive Performer
R-Jr. DE Tre Moore – Outstanding Defensive Performer
R-Jr. WR Sam Pinckney – Workout Warrior
R-Sr. CB Jaylon Jones – Academic Achievement (top GPA for fall semester)