Alabama linebackers Jihaad Campbell and Deontae Lawson were two of 15 semifinalists for the Butkus Award, the Butkus Foundation announced Monday morning. The award is presented each year to the top linebacker at both the collegiate and high school levels.
Lawson was selected as a semifinalist last season, while Monday’s announcement marks Campbell’s first entry.
A do-it-all defender that plays inside and on the outside for the Alabama defense, Campbell has produced a team-high tying 66 total tackles and managed 6.5 tackles for loss (-25 yards) and 2.5 sacks (-13 yards). The junior has also added one interception, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and pass breakup.
Lawson, who is the leader in the middle on the Crimson Tide’s defensive unit, also has 66 tackles on the season, including five for loss (-29 yards) and two sacks (-21 yards). Lawson has recorded three pass breakups and forced a fumble.
Either player could become the fifth Alabama player to take home the award. The others are as follows: Derrick Thomas (1988), Rolando McClain (2009), C.J. Mosley (2013), and Reuben Foster (2016).
Finalists for the 40th annual Butkus Award will be revealed on November 25, with the 2024 winner to be announced on or before December 10. TG
Photos courtesy UA Athletics.
