Lawson Named Butkus Award Semifinalist

Alabama linebacker Deontae Lawson was named a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, presented annually to the top linebacker in college football, according to a release by the University of Alabama.

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Lawson is one of 12 linebackers in college football named as a semifinalist, and it's his second consecutive season being named a semifinalist. He, alongside former Alabama and now Philadelphia Eagle linebacker Jihaad Campbell, were named semifinalists last season as well.

Deontae Lawson, a redshirt senior from Mobile, Alabama, is the signal caller of Alabama's defense and is one of just 16 two-time captains in Alabama football history. He's totaled 47 tackles in eight games, which is second-most among the Crimson Tide defense. He's also tallied 1.5 tackles for loss, three pass breakups, one quarterback hurry, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Lawson's play has helped lead Alabama to a 7-1 overall record, with the Crimson Tide currently ranked No. 4 in the country, and a 5-0 record in SEC play. Alabama has just three SEC games remaining on its 2025 schedule (LSU, Oklahoma, at Auburn).

Alabama has had four players previously win the Butkus Award: Reuben Foster (2016), C.J. Mosley (2013), Rolando McClain (2009), and Derrick Thomas (1988).

Alabama's next game will come this Saturday, November 8, as the Crimson Tide hosts the LSU Tigers. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT.

Wyatt Fulton is the Tide 100.9 DME and Brand Manager, primarily covering Alabama Crimson Tide football and men's basketball. For more Crimson Tide coverage, follow Wyatt on X (Formerly known as Twitter) at @FultonW_.