Multiple Top College Defenders Named 2025 Bednarik Award Watch List

The Bednarik Award watch list for the 2025 college football season features several standout defensive players from top programs. Baylor linebacker Keaton Thomas, who led his team with 114 tackles last season and earned first-team All-Big 12 honors, continues to garner preseason attention along with being named to other prestigious watch lists. Georgia sophomore safety KJ Bolden also made the list, poised to become a key starter following the departure of Georgia's previous safeties to the NFL, with coaches praising his leadership despite his youth. Oklahoma's R Mason Thomas, known for his pass-rushing skills and nine sacks last year, joins the list aiming to build on his disruptive presence. Georgia Tech linebacker Kyle Efford, a consistent team leader in tackles and sacks, was acknowledged for his strong performances despite injury setbacks. Notre Dame defensive standouts Leonard Moore, a highly improved cornerback, and linebacker Drayk Bowen, a former High School Butkus Award winner, also earned spots on the watch list, highlighting the depth of defensive talent competing for the Bednarik Award in 2025.