Pair of Tremendous Trojans on the Lombardi Award Watch List

© Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Two USC down linemen were named to the prestigious Lombardi Award Watch List, offensive lineman Jonah Monheim and defensive tackle Bear Alexander.

Since 1970, the Rotary Club of Houston has presented the award annually to the best down lineman in college football, whether on offense or defense. Named after legendary coach Vince Lombardi, the award is given to players who display "exceptional performance and ability" while exemplifying the "character and discipline" for which Lombardi was revered.

The Lombardi Award

The Lombardi Award represents the hard work, dedication, excellence and perseverance of outstanding athletes who exhibit leadership and good character. As these athletes compete on the field, they help inspire future generations of players and continue the legacy of the coaching legend after whom the award is named.

Originally, the award was only for interior line positions, which Lombardi played when he attended Fordham University. However, the award is now available not only to offensive linemen and defensive tackles but also to all down linemen and linebackers.

Ohio State Buckeyes' guard Jim Stillwagon was the first to win the prestigious award back in 1970. Last year's winner was UCLA's defensive end Laiatu Latu.

Net proceeds from the activities associated with the award are contributed to cancer treatment, awareness, and research on behalf of Lombardi's late wife, Marie.

Bear Alexander

After beginning his college career with the Georgia Bulldogs, Alexander transferred to USC in 2023. In his first season with the Trojans, the 6-foot-3, 315-pound defensive tackle from Terrel, Texas, made 48 tackles, including 6.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 quarterback sacks. He also had 4 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery and 1 pass breakup. A force to be reckoned with, he started 12 games for USC in 2023.

Alexander was also recently named to the Bednarik Award Watch List. The Bednarik Award is presented annually by the Maxwell Football Club to the best defensive player in college football.

Jonah Monheim

Veteran offensive lineman Jonah Monheim anchors the USC Trojans' front five and he is beginning to receive significant praise and recognition. Pro Football Focus recently rated Monheim one of the Top 10 offensive tackles returning to play at the collegiate level in 2024. Trojans OL coach Josh Henson 

describes Monheim as "extremely intelligent," and coach Lincoln Riley concurs, characterizing him as a "tremendous" asset to the team. Furthermore, 247 Sports forecasts Monheim will be a Day One or Day Two selection in the 2025 NFL Draft based on impressive performance, including his stout quarterback protection—allowing only 2 sacks in his last two seasons.

Monheim attended Moonpark High School in Southern California. He was a three-year starter there and a PrepStar All-American. As a four-star recruit, he received offers from Oklahoma, Alabama and other blue-chip programs.

Monheim is a redshirt senior. He is 6-foot-5 and 305 pounds. He demonstrated great versatility in his first four seasons at USC, starting 34 games at multiple positions along the line—18 at right tackle, 12 at left tackle and 4 at right guard.