Released by the Butkus Award:
RALEIGH, N.C. – The 39th annual collegiate Butkus Award® honoring the nation’s best collegiate linebacker was presented today to North Carolina State University middle linebacker Payton Wilson. The award was presented formally during a surprise appearance by Matt Butkus, son of linebacker legend Dick Butkus.
The 6-4, 242-pound graduate student from Hillsborough, N.C., started all 12 games for the Wolfpack in 2023, leading a defense that ranks in the top 25 nationally in nine defensive categories. The ACC Defensive Player of the Year and five-time conference linebacker of the week, Wilson made 138 stops and 17.5 tackles for loss, along with ten pass breakups, a forced fumble, two recovered fumbles, and three interceptions with one returned for a score. Wilson played 46 games and had 36 starts during his collegiate career with the Wolfpack.
Photo Cred: NC State
The Butkus Award Selection Committee said, “Payton Wilson set the standard for toughness, competitiveness and on-field leadership this fall. He lined up the defense and often was moving to the ball before the snap. His exceptional production, all-around performance and presence distinguished him at the top of this year’s Butkus Award winner.”
Wilson garnered 61% of first place votes and led the field with 37% of the overall vote, followed by Jeremiah Trotter of Clemson (29%), Ty’Ron Hopper of Missouri (16%), Edefuan Ulofoshio of Washington, and Nathaniel Watson of Mississippi State. Additionally, Edgerrin Cooper of Texas A&M and Tommy Eichenberg of Ohio State received write-in votes.
The Butkus Award selection committee focuses on qualities that defined Dick Butkus’ career: toughness, on-field leadership, competitiveness, football character and linebacking skills. Last season’s collegiate winner was Jack Campbell of Iowa (now Detroit Lions) and the pro winner was Roquan Smith of the Baltimore Ravens. This season’s high school winner was Sammy Brown of Jefferson, Ga. Three 2023 Butkus Award winners will be honored at an event Jan. 27, 2024, at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage, Calif. A limited number of ticket packages are available through the Butkus Foundation.
Photo Cred: Pack Insider
About the Butkus Award
Founded in 1985, the Butkus Award honors linebackers at three levels while supporting causes important to the Butkus family. Causes include Butkus Takes Heart™ initiative encouraging early cardiovascular screening among adults, and the I Play Clean® initiative encouraging athletes to train naturally without performance-enhancing drugs. A 51-member expert panel of coaches, scouts and journalists guides the selection process. The Butkus Foundation has presented the high school and professional awards since 2008. The collegiate award is now in its 39th season.
