08/14/2026
The tradition of excellence continues.
The Butkus Foundation has announced the preseason watch list for the 42nd annual Butkus Award®, honoring the nation’s top collegiate linebacker and carrying forward the legacy of Dick Butkus and his iconic No. 51.
This year’s 51-player watch list represents 42 colleges and universities across the country, featuring returning All-Americans, All-Conference performers, and emerging defensive standouts who embody the toughness, instincts, leadership, competitiveness, and football character that defined one of the greatest linebackers in football history.
More than six decades after Dick Butkus established his legacy at the University of Illinois and throughout his Hall of Fame NFL career, the Butkus Award remains one of college football’s most respected individual honors.
The Foundation will also continue its Takes Heart™ partnership with Carle Illinois College of Medicine, featured during the annual Butkus Award television special on the Big Ten Network. Inspired by Dick Butkus’ own experience with heart disease, Takes Heart promotes cardiovascular screening, early detection, education, and prevention—extending his legacy well beyond the football field.
CMG Worldwide is proud to help honor and extend the legacy of Dick Butkus through an award that continues to recognize the qualities that made him legendary: preparation, toughness, intelligence, leadership, and relentless effort.
The 2026 Butkus Award® semifinalists will be announced October 28, finalists November 20, and the winner during the week of December 7.
The legacy continues. The standard remains No. 51.