UCLA LB in the Running for Major Award

UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger has been announced as a semifinalist for a major postseason award.

Oct 12, 2024; Pasadena, California, USA; UCLA Bruins linebacker Carson Schwesinger (49) moves to tackle Minnesota Golden Gophers running back Darius Taylor (1) during the first half at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images / Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

UCLA redshirt junior linebacker Carson Schwesinger's play on the field is paying off.

On Monday, the Butkus Foundation revealed the 15 college and high school semifinalists for the 40th annual Butkus Award, given annually to the nation's top linebacker. Schwesinger was one of the college candidates.

Schwesinger has been on a tear this season, leading the Big Ten in tackles per game with 10.6, total solo tackles with 54, solo tackles per game with 6.8 and double-digit tackle outings (six). Those six showings have all come in UCLA's last six games, making for a six-game streak for the redshirt junior.

To compare, the former walk-on registered just 12 tackles last year.

Schwesinger has taken a tremendous leap from last season to this season, and today, he is among the best linebackers in the nation.

"This recognition means a lot," Schwesinger said, per UCLA Football. "It's just a credit to my parents, how they raised me and the values they instilled in me. It's a credit to the team we built and we've stayed strong, piecing together some wins. The whole defense, led by (defensive coordinator)Ikaika Malloe, has been able to all work together as one and make plays."

Schwesinger comes off what was yet another impressive outing in the Bruins' upset win over Nebraska, having finished the day with 13 tackles, one for a loss, a sack and two passes defensed.

The rest of the college semifinalists for this year's Butkus Award are as follow:

Jihaad Campbell, Alabama

Deontae Lawson, Alabama

Shaun Dolac, Buffalo

Barrett Carter, Clemson

Jalon Walker, Georgia

Aiden Fisher, Indiana

Jay Higgins, Iowa

Chandler Martin, Memphis

Chris Paul Jr., Mississippi

Sean Brown, North Carolina State

Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Danny Stutsman, Oklahoma

Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

Shae Suiaunoa, Wyoming

The finalists will be revealed on Nov. 25. The winners will.be announced by Dec. 10.

Per the Butkus Foundation, "The award recognizes exceptional performance, agility, and a dedication to the game that reflects the spirit of Dick Butkus himself. The recipients of this award are considered among the best at their position and frequently go on to have successful careers in football."

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