Richardson Named to Butkus Award Watch List

CHESTNUT HILL, Mass. – The Butkus Award® honoring the nation's best linebackers kicked off its 36th annual selection process today by announcing its collegiate preseason watch list.

The Collegiate Butkus Award watch list includes candidates from 44 universities, including Boston College graduate student linebacker Max Richardson. Former BC standout Luke Kuechly is the only player in school history to win the Butkus Award in 2011.

It marks the second major award Richardson has been named to the watch list for. He was also named to the watch list of the 26^th annual Chuck Bednarik Award, presented annually to the outstanding defensive player in college football.

Richardson was eighth nationally with 72 solo tackles in 2019 en route to being named to the All-ACC second-team. He led the ACC in solo tackles and ranked among the conference leaders in total tackles (108).

The Georgia native led Boston College last season with 14.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage and added 3.5 sacks, two pass breakups and one forced fumble.

The watch list contains 51 linebackers, mirroring the legendary "51" pro jersey associated with the Award's namesake Dick Butkus, who was recognized by NFL Films as the best defensive player in football history.

Semifinalists are expected to be named November 2, finalists November 23, and winners on or before December 8. Appearing on the watch list is not a requirement to win the award.

The Butkus Award, www.thebutkusaward.com, @ButkusAward2020 and on Facebook at 51.butkus, is presented by the nonprofit Butkus Foundation. Selectors and selection criteria are located on the official website. Search social media for #butkusaward2020.

Richardson Named to Butkus Award Watch List

Players Mentioned

Max Richardson

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