SEC lands 2 linebackers among Butkus Award finalists
The SEC had a pair of linebackers land on the list for the Butkus Award finalists.
Missouri’s Ty’Ron Hopper and Mississippi State’s Nathaniel Watson are both finalists for the Butkus Award, which honors the most impactful linebacker at the high school, collegiate and NFL level. The award is named after legendary linebacker Dick Butkus.
“The five finalists embody the toughness, grit, football temperament and play making ability that the Butkus Award seeks to recognize. It’s my honor to present our finalists, on behalf of my dad, as chosen by our selection committee,” Matt Butkus said in a press release. “There are many very deserving candidates. These linebackers represent the most exceptional and have very bright futures ahead.”
Other finalists include Clemson’s Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Washington’s Edefuan Ulofoshio and NC State’s Payton Wilson.
Hopper has been elite for Missouri this year, recording 55 tackles and 3 sacks, helping lead the Tigers to a 9-2 record so far. Watson has emerged as one of the best linebackers in the SEC in his senior season, recording 116 tackles, 10 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and an interception.