Polynesian award finalists announced

Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota and San Diego linebacker Manti Te’o are among the five finalists for the 2015 Polynesian Pro Football Player of the Year Award.

The winner will be announced January 5.

The other finalists are Arizona offensive lineman Mike Iupati, Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga and Miami Dolphins linebacker Koa Misi.

The finalists were chosen by the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame Selection Committee members, composed of past head football coaches Dick Tomey (Chairman), LaVell Edwards, Ron McBride, and Dick Vermeil, ESPN SportsCenter anchor Neil Everett, NFL player personnel expert Gil Brandt, past NFLPA president Kevin Mawae and Hawaii sportscaster Robert Kekaula.