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The Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List is packed with standout defensive players, each poised to make a significant impact on the field.
Among these elite athletes are several from the Big Ten Conference, whose remarkable performances and leadership abilities have set them apart. From Iowa’s tenacious defense to Michigan’s formidable front, these players are ready to leave their mark on the 2024 season.
Sebastian Castro, Defensive Back, Iowa
Known as one of the best playmakers in all of college football, Castro is poised for a meteoric rise to national prominence. Castro was named to the Athlon preseason fourth team All-American and second team All-Big Ten, as well as Phil Steele’s preseason second team All-Big Ten. Additionally, he has been on the watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Jim Thorpe Award.
Jay Higgins, Linebacker, Iowa
Initially doubted and lightly recruited, Higgins had only one scholarship offer from Iowa. Emerging from Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis as a three-star prospect and ranked 1,646th in the 247Sports Composite for the 2020 class, he has defied expectations. With the Hawkeyes, Higgins blossomed, leading the nation in tackles and becoming a top preseason contender for the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. Last season, Higgins exploded with 171 total tackles, becoming the heart and soul of Iowa’s defense.
Nick Jackson, Linebacker, Iowa
Higgins’ partner in crime, fortifying the Iowa defense is Jackson, who joined the Hawkeyes as a transfer from Virginia ahead of last season. The graduate linebacker notched his fourth consecutive season with 100-plus tackles, finishing the 2023 campaign with 110 tackles. Now entering his sixth year of college football, Jackson brings experience and consistency to the Hawkeyes’ defense.
Will Johnson, Cornerback, Michigan
Having a remarkable football career at Michigan, Johnson has consistently demonstrated exceptional skill and performance on the field establishing him as the best corner in the league.
His stellar performances have earned him multiple accolades, including first team All-American honors from Sports Illustrated and consensus first team All-Big Ten Conference selection by both coaches and the media. Johnson was also named Defensive MVP in the 2023 National Championship game.
Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Graham emerged as the fourth-most valuable defensive tackle in the nation, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the spectrum. Graham’s 15.9 percent pass-rush win rate places him among the elite, while his tenacious run defense earned him accolades as one of only two interior defensive linemen to boast top-10 grades in both categories. His recent recognition as the Rose Bowl Defensive MVP further solidified his status as a game-changer.
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Kenneth Grant, Defensive Tackle, Michigan
Ranked as the No. 6 defensive tackle in college football this fall by PFF, Grant has garnered numerous preseason All-Big Ten honors. As a nose tackle, Grant’s box score may not always reflect his impact, but his presence as a pass rusher, tackler and run stopper significantly disrupts opposing offenses. Grant is considered the second half of the best DT duo in college football and a game-wrecker in his own right.
Cody Lindenberg, Linebacker, Minnesota
Lindenberg is the heartbeat, the voice and the reason everyone gets aligned for PJ Fleck and his defense. A healthy Lindenberg is a significant boost for the Golden Gophers. Lindenberg’s 115 career tackles are the most by a wide margin for the Gophers, although he has not had a season where he’s started all 12 games.
This season he will be the presumed starting middle linebacker in the Twin Cities.
Nash Hutmacher, Defensive Tackle, Nebraska
Hutmacher is the heart of the defense and one of the toughest players on the Cornhusker roster. A major reason the 2023 Cornhuskers posted their best total defense and scoring defense since joining the Big Ten in 2011. His relentless effort and leadership were pivotal in the elevation of the team’s defensive performance.
Xander Mueller, Linebacker, Northwestern
A monster final season is expected for Mueller after a sure-fire breakout season in 2023. After accumulating 110 total tackles, 10.5 for loss, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and 3 interceptions, Mueller had received a third team All-Big Ten selection. Mueller has held a high consistency and impactful play in the center of the Wildcat defense since 2022.
Dillon Thieneman, Safety, Purdue
Thieneman is the best single-high safety in the country per PFF and was named to the Bronko Nagurski watch list. Thieneman has made a significant impact for the Boilermakers since his arrival his freshman year, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year and earning all-conference honors. As a freshman, he recorded 106 tackles along with a Big Ten-best 74 solo tackles and 6 interceptions.
All eyes will be on these exceptional defenders who have the talent and drive to secure Bednarik Award. Their journeys are not just about personal accolades but also about leading their teams to success.
These players embody the grit and determination that define defense in college football. As they step onto the field, they carry the hopes of their teams and the legacy of the Big Ten, ready to showcase their skills and make their mark on the 2024 season.
Check out who else made the Bednarik Award Watch List!
The 2024 Bednarik Award Watch List: 11-20
Also, check out who is on the Maxwell Award Watch List!
This article is brought to you by the Maxwell Football Club, home of the prestigious Maxwell & Chuck Bednarik Awards. Become a member of the Maxwell Football Club and gain the exclusive privilege of voting for these and other nationally-recognized awards.
With over 75 years of honoring football’s finest, the Maxwell Football Club offers you the unique opportunity to help recognize top talent from high school to the professional level. By joining, you’ll be part of a tradition that celebrates excellence and helps shape the game's future.
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