The competition for the 2024 Butkus Award has intensified, with Alabama’s Deontae Lawson and Jihaad Campbell officially recognized as semifinalists. This honor highlights Alabama’s standout performance, being the only program with multiple players on the prestigious list for the best linebacker in college football.
Both Lawson and Campbell have made significant contributions to the Crimson Tide’s defense this season, each boasting 66 total tackles, which ranks them sixth in the SEC. Campbell stands out as the team’s solo tackle leader with 38, complemented by 6.5 tackles for loss (TFL), 2.5 sacks, an interception, and several forced turnovers. Meanwhile, Lawson has recorded 31 solo tackles, five TFL, two sacks, and a forced fumble.
Despite their impressive performances, Alabama has not seen a Butkus Award winner since Reuben Foster in 2016, making this year a crucial opportunity for Lawson and Campbell to break that streak.
